In 2022, Thailand officially removed cannabis from its list of banned narcotics, making headlines as the first Asian country to decriminalise the plant. The decision was driven by hopes of stimulating the local agricultural sector and creating new economic opportunities. Officials also anticipated that a more relaxed stance could help boost tourism. This led to a boom in cannabis growers and dispensaries across Thailand. However, there were loopholes and grey areas in the wording of the laws. To address these issues, new regulations came into effect on 23 June 2025.
Thai officials continue to emphasise that smoking cannabis or hemp in public places is prohibited. Violators can be fined up to 25,000 Baht and risk a possible jail term of up to three months.
New cannabis regulations (June 2025)
The new rules mean stricter controls on cannabis flowers, with law enforcement now actively implementing these rules. Cannabis is now restricted to medical use only.
International visitors should be aware that cannabis flower is now officially classified as a controlled herb under Thai law. This change comes under a new directive issued by the Ministry of Public Health, replacing the previous guidelines from November 2022.
Although cannabis was removed from Thailand’s list of narcotics in 2022, it has never been legally approved for recreational use. Its legal use has always been restricted to medical, research, and health-related purposes. The new 2025 regulation addresses previous legal ambiguities, tightening control over the cannabis flower, which is regarded as the most commonly misused part of the plant.
What the law means for tourists
With the 2025 regulation now in effect, nationwide enforcement is being stepped up. Possession, use, or purchase of cannabis flower without proper medical authorisation is illegal.
Tourists are not allowed to use, carry, purchase, or transport cannabis flowers unless they hold a valid prescription issued by a licensed Thai practitioner in traditional medicine, Chinese medicine, or dentistry. Even with a prescription, cannabis flower must only be used for legitimate medical treatment and cannot exceed a 30-day supply.
Shops or vendors offering cannabis for smoking, particularly those appealing to walk-in customers in tourist hotspots, may be operating illegally. Visitors should not assume that cannabis products on open display are lawful or safe. Authorities are cracking down on unlicensed retailers and increasing surveillance in areas frequented by tourists.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) urges all travellers to stay informed and avoid purchasing or consuming cannabis flower in any form while in Thailand. Anyone unsure about the legality of a cannabis-related product should consult an authorised medical professional or refer to official government resources. What may have seemed acceptable in the past may never have been legal, and misunderstanding the law could result in serious consequences.
Sales and advertising restrictions
Cannabis products cannot be sold online, through vending machines, or advertised in any format. Sales are also banned in specific public areas such as temples, parks, schools, dormitories, and amusement venues.
Medical use
Medical cannabis has been allowed since 2018, but the updates in 2022 made it easier for healthcare providers and clinics to offer treatments and promote cannabis-based therapies. Public hospitals can prescribe cannabis as part of Thailand’s universal healthcare system.
Cannabis cultivation and use in Thailand are only permitted under specific conditions. The THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) content (responsible for the psychoactive effects) needs to be under 0.2% by weight. This same threshold applies to cannabis-derived products, including oils and extracts. Anything exceeding this limit is still considered illegal.
Thailand has a long-standing tradition of using herbal remedies in traditional medicine. One such plant, kratom, is a natural stimulant and pain reliever native to Southeast Asia. Kratom was re-legalised in 2021 after years of prohibition. Alongside cannabis, kratom was reintegrated into Thailand’s health and wellness landscape.
Cannabis in food and beverages
Since 2022, cannabis-infused food and drink have become increasingly common across the country, especially in cafes and restaurants that cater to curious tourists. However, to comply with regulations, these items must contain less than 0.2% THC.
Cross-border restrictions
Despite changes in domestic legislation, transporting cannabis products across international borders remains illegal. Travellers are strictly prohibited from bringing cannabis into or out of Thailand, even in small amounts.
