Thailand's cannabis rules are moving away from the open retail model that appeared after cannabis was removed from the narcotics list in 2022. The proposed framework would focus on medical treatment and authorised research, rather than casual recreational use.

What do Thailand's cannabis rules mean now?

![A regulated cannabis clinic exterior in Thailand with official medical signage]

Quick answer: Thailand's cannabis rules are becoming stricter, but the cabinet-approved draft is not yet a final law. The proposal would allow cannabis and cannabis extracts for medical treatment under professional supervision or for authorised research.

The draft bill has been sent to Parliament for consideration. Until the legislative process is complete, travellers should not assume that every proposed restriction is already fully effective, though the government is clearly moving toward tighter medical control.

Why Thailand is tightening cannabis access

The proposed changes are intended to reduce misuse and protect young people and children. The Public Health Ministry has said that cannabis and cannabis extracts should be used under the supervision of qualified medical professionals or for approved research.

This approach would replace the idea that a shop's open frontage automatically means anyone can buy and use cannabis without restrictions. Visitors should treat each shop as a regulated business whose licence and permitted services may change.

The draft does not simply mean that every cannabis-related product disappears. Instead, it creates a tighter framework for cultivation, production, imports, exports and sales, with licensing and professional oversight at its centre.

How cannabis shop licensing would change

![A Thailand cannabis shop being reviewed for medical licensing requirements]

Under the proposal, cultivation, production, import, export and sale of cannabis would require a licence issued by the director-general of the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine. The proposed licence period is 3 years.

Existing shop licences would expire progressively between 2026 and 2028. Shops that want to continue after their current licences expire would need to meet the requirements for licensed medical facilities, including the presence of qualified health professionals and inspections.

The available reporting does not establish that exactly 2,000 shops will remain. That figure is an estimate reported in some coverage, while current official tracking figures refer to more than 10,000 cannabis shops and cultivation sites. The final number of legal businesses will depend on the bill and its implementation.

Restrictions on sales, places and promotion

The draft would prohibit sales to people under 20, pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers. It would also restrict sales in places including temples, schools, public parks, zoos and amusement parks.

Advertising, promotion and marketing of cannabis flowers, resin and smoking devices would be prohibited under the draft. The proposal would also increase penalties for unlicensed cultivation, production, imports, exports and sales.

Unauthorised use could also result in fines. These provisions mean that travellers should not treat cannabis as an ordinary souvenir or a product that can be used without checking the conditions attached to its sale and use.

What visitors to Thailand should do

![A traveller reading cannabis restrictions before visiting Thailand]

Thailand's cannabis rules may change again while Parliament considers the bill. Travellers should check the latest official announcement before buying, carrying or using cannabis in Thailand, and can find broader Thailand travel planning resources for the rest of their trip.

Do not assume that a shop is operating legally simply because it is open. Ask whether the business is licensed for the service it provides, avoid use in prohibited locations, and do not carry cannabis across an international border without checking the relevant customs and destination-country rules.

If you are travelling for medical reasons, keep any supporting medical documentation and ask a qualified professional about the current requirements. Do not rely on old social media posts or shop signs as proof that a particular product or activity is permitted.

Thailand's cannabis rules are still subject to change, so travellers should re-check the current position shortly before departure.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is cannabis already banned for recreational use in Thailand?

The cabinet has approved a draft bill that would restrict cannabis to medical treatment and authorised research, but the bill must still pass through Parliament. Travellers should check the current legal position before using cannabis.

Can visitors still buy cannabis in Thailand?

The proposed rules would place sales under a licensing system and medical oversight. An open shop does not by itself prove that recreational purchase or use is allowed.

When would existing cannabis shops need to change?

Existing licences are expected to expire progressively between 2026 and 2028. Businesses that want to continue would need to meet the requirements for licensed medical facilities under the new framework.

Can cannabis be taken out of Thailand?

The information supplied for this post does not establish a current export rule for travellers. Check the latest Thai customs requirements and the rules of your destination country before carrying cannabis internationally.