The Change of Course in Thailand
Just 18 months ago, Thailand became one of the few countries to legalize cannabis use. However, the new conservative coalition government has decided to reverse this measure, generating a great stir in the country.
The streets of Bangkok, especially in tourist areas, have been filled with eye-catching signs advertising the sale of cannabis. During this short period of time, dispensaries have multiplied and cannabis-infused food and drink menus have become common.
The Government and its Motives
The new conservative coalition government, led by the Pheu Thai party, has argued that cannabis legalization has been poorly regulated and poses health risks, especially among young people. The party has campaigned to ban recreational marijuana use and restrict its use exclusively for medicinal purposes.
Anutin Charnvirakul, Bhumjaithai party leader and deputy prime minister, has been a key figure in this turnaround. Although he previously supported the legalization of cannabis, he has now stated that he has always focused on its medical use and not recreational use.
The New Restrictions
The government’s new proposals seek to more strictly regulate marijuana use in Thailand. It is intended to limit its use exclusively for medicinal purposes and restrict its sale and advertising for recreational use.
If approved, recreational cannabis use would be punishable by fines of up to 60,000 Thai baht (approximately 1,560 euros) and prison sentences of up to one year. In addition, fines of up to 100,000 baht (approximately 2,600 euros) would be imposed for advertising or marketing cannabis for recreational use. Cultivation without a license would also be punished with penalties of one to three years in prison or fines of 20,000 to 300,000 baht (approximately 520 to 7,780 euros).
Impact on Tourists
While awaiting approval of these new measures, cannabis stores in and around Bangkok remain open. However, there are already some restrictions on the consumption of cannabis in public places. Smoking or vaping in public spaces is prohibited and can result in fines of up to 25,000 baht (approximately 650 euros).
It is important to highlight that the transport of cannabis across borders remains illegal and is punishable in neighboring countries. For example, Singapore has very strict anti-drug policies and can arrest its citizens for using drugs outside the country.
Conclusion
Thailand has taken an unexpected turn in its cannabis legalization policy. The new Conservative coalition government has proposed changes and restrictions to more strictly regulate marijuana use in the country. These measures seek to limit its use exclusively for medicinal purposes and avoid the risks associated with recreational consumption. Tourists visiting Thailand should be aware of these new regulations and respect existing restrictions to avoid legal problems.
