National —
On September 18th, 2024, Thai national media reported that the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine has opened public consultations on the draft Cannabis and Hemp Act, running from September 16th to the 30th through the law.go.th website.
The public, including farmers, business operators, and citizens, are invited to provide feedback on key aspects of the draft law here. The proposed legislation includes the establishment of a Cannabis and Hemp Board, chaired by the Thai Minister of Public Health, which would be responsible for overseeing the regulation, promotion, and safe use of cannabis and hemp, particularly in medical, agricultural, and industrial sectors.
The draft outlines licensing requirements for growing, producing, importing, exporting, and selling cannabis and hemp. While roots, branches, leaves, stems, and seeds are less regulated, cannabis flowers will face stricter control, requiring government licenses for sale, production, and export, according to Thai national media.
Special permits will also be required for each import or export transaction. Cultivation licenses will be categorized by the size of the farm, ranging from small (up to 5 rai), medium (5 to 20 rai), and large (over 20 but up to 400 rai).
Additionally, the draft law prohibits advertising or marketing cannabis flowers and related products. Sales of cannabis are also banned for individuals under 20 years of age, pregnant women, and nursing mothers, reported Thai national media.
The law forbids the sale of cannabis in schools, religious sites, public parks, zoos, and amusement parks.
