Thailand tightens cannabis rules: effects on tourism!

Thailand tightens cannabis rules: effects on tourism!

Thailand - Thailand, which was the first country in Asia in Asia in June 2022, is now faced with a dramatic change in his cannabis policy. The legalization, which allowed possession, purchase, cultivation and sale of cannabis, brought with it a variety of changes, including an upswing in tourism and the economy. It is estimated that cannabis tourism has achieved almost $ 800 million in income since legalization, with a forecast of up to nine billion US dollars by 2030. However, these developments also led to an increase in smuggling cases, especially by tourists, which forced the Thai authorities to act. According to watson.de there were several cases in February 2023 in which travelers were discovered over two tons of travelers.

The situation continued to escalate when over 50 British citizens have been arrested since July 2022 due to drug trafficking in Thailand. Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin emphasized the strictness of the new guidelines that would only allow the sale of cannabis with a medical recipe. These guidelines are part of the Thai government's plan to drastically tighten the regulations for cannabis sales. At the airport, the controls were particularly reinforced by Indian and British travelers.

future of cannabis policy

The decision to tighten the cannabis laws is not entirely unproblematic. Within the Thai government there is disagreement on future cannabis policy. While the governing pheu Thai party is planning to withdraw legalization, the coalition partner is committed to continuing decriminalization. Voices of Health Minister Cholnan Srikaew confirm that the consumption of cannabis should be banned again, but with exceptions for medical purposes.

The background of these drastic measures are alarming: After legalization, an increase in mental problems was determined, with reports over 61,000 cases in 2023 compared to 37,000 in 2022. There are also indications of increasing illegal consumption in minors and an increase in criminal acts under drug influence, although official figures are missing.

economic effects

The possible economic setbacks that could arise from the exacerbation of the law are enormous. The decline in cannabis tourism could affect the country's income and affect millions of Thai countries who work in the cannabis industry. Over one million Thai thai have currently applied for growing licenses, since the cultivation of cannabis was more economically lucrative than that of rice. However, the health authorities emphasize that public health has priority over economic interests, which continues to intensify the debate about legalization.

The situation remains tense. While Thailand is on the threshold of taking back legalization, the discussion about the correct way of dealing with cannabis and its social effects will continue. The future of this political decision will not only affect Thai society, but also international cannabis tourism.