According to the TAT announcement, tourists visiting Thailand should be aware of the regulations regarding the use and possession of cannabis and hemp. Accordingly, cannabis foods or products containing more than 0.2% THC (a major psychoactive compound in cannabis) are still illegal.
The announcement stated, "The Thai Ministry of Public Health has designated cannabis and hemp as controlled plants, legalized cannabis for medical and health purposes, and restricted the possession and use of cannabis to those aged 20 and over (unless permitted by a doctor)… Smoking cannabis in public is prohibited and the penalty for this is 3 months in prison and a 25,000 Baht fine. The new cannabis policies only allow production and consumption for medical or health-related reasons, not for recreational purposes."
Currently in Thailand, all businesses selling cannabis products must register with local authorities.
The TAT said it is illegal for visitors to bring into Thailand products containing cannabis and hemp extracts, as well as any parts of hemp and cannabis. In addition, visitors should be extremely cautious when purchasing these products in Thailand. According to Bangkokpost, some Thai embassies in China, South Korea, Singapore and Japan have recently warned visitors returning from Thailand not to bring cannabis or cannabis products.
In response to reports of illegal marijuana sales on Khao San Road – a famous tourist destination in Bangkok, the Bangkok City Government has affirmed that it will not accept Khao San as a marijuana tourism center and that the public sale of marijuana-infused food and drinks remains illegal, especially around school areas. Currently in Thailand, all businesses selling marijuana products must register with local authorities.
