Thailand: Cannabis Laws (2025 Medical-Only Shift)

Last updated: October 14, 2025

Not legal advice. Thailand’s rules have changed quickly. Always verify on official government portals and the Royal Gazette notices referenced below before acting. See our Legal Disclaimer & No-Warranty and Terms of Use.

What Changed in 2025 (At a Glance)

• Royal Gazette publication (June 25–26, 2025): The Ministry of Public Health reclassified cannabis flower (bud) as a controlled herb for medical use only, curbing recreational sales/advertising and tightening licensing and sourcing obligations. Multiple reputable outlets and legal briefs reported the Gazette notice and its immediate effect. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
• Purchase & access: Prescription/medical certificate requirements announced for purchasing cannabis flower; retail restricted to compliant medical channels. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

Thailand’s legal framework is evolving. Policymakers signaled further steps, including potential narcotics reclassification. Always confirm via the Ministry of Public Health and Gazette posts.

What This Means Practically

• Recreational retail: Not permitted. Advertising and general sales of flower have been prohibited, with enforcement focused on medical-only channels. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
• Medical context: Access depends on licensed providers, prescriptions, and traceable pharmaceutical-grade supply; non-compliant sales risk penalties. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
• Tourists: Do not assume prior (2022–2024) practices remain valid. Verify locally and avoid public consumption; expect stricter checks.
• Import/Export: Remain highly regulated; do not transport cannabis across borders.

Official & Authoritative Links

• Ministry of Public Health (Thailand) – policy updates and notices (Thai).
• Royal Gazette – Ministerial Notifications & controlled-herb announcements (Thai).
• Newswires & summaries corroborating the Gazette change: Associated Press, Reuters; policy coverage by national outlets. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

Tip: Carry translated copies of relevant notices if you’re a business operator. When in doubt, consult a Thai legal professional.

Before You Act

1. Confirm current status via the Royal Gazette and the Ministry of Public Health.
2. If you operate a shop or clinic, ensure licensing/traceability and prescription workflows meet current standards.
3. Tourists should avoid public use, keep receipts, and follow medical guidance only.

Related Reading on 420.place

• Cannabis Laws by Country & Region
• United States (Federal & State Overview)
• Responsible Use Guide
• Information You Can Trust
• How We Fact-Check

We track major legal moves in Research Updates.