Thailand Tightens Medical Cannabis Rules as Hundreds of Phuket Shops Face Scrutiny

Thailand has stepped up enforcement of its cannabis regulations as part of a nationwide effort to ensure the plant is used strictly for medical purposes. As part of the campaign, authorities inspected cannabis dispensaries across Phuket and identified hundreds of businesses with licensing issues.

Deputy Government Spokesperson Ploythalay Lucksameesaengchan announced on July 19 that officials are intensifying inspections of cannabis cultivation and retail businesses to prevent misuse, improve consumer protection, and ensure compliance with the country’s updated regulations.

The inspections were carried out jointly by provincial administration officials, police, and the Provincial Public Health Office. Their focus was to verify that cannabis retailers are operating legally and following rules that limit cannabis sales to medical use.

According to the government, inspectors found that 533 cannabis shops had failed to renew their operating licences, while 12 additional businesses had their licences suspended.

Authorities are now investigating whether any of these establishments continued operating after their licences expired or were suspended, which could result in additional legal action.

Ploythalay said the government has instructed all relevant agencies to take firm action against businesses operating without valid licences, particularly in major tourist destinations. The campaign is intended to enhance public safety, protect consumers, and maintain confidence in Thailand as a tourist destination.

Although cannabis remains legal in Thailand, the government has introduced stricter controls designed to limit its use to medical treatment.

Under the current regulations, customers must present a valid medical certificate or prescription issued by an authorized healthcare professional before purchasing cannabis flowers.

Licensed dispensaries are also required to provide access to qualified medical personnel or other legally recognized specialists who can advise customers. Businesses that do not employ medical staff directly must cooperate with licensed clinics or physicians to assess customers before completing a sale.

Authorities noted that staffing requirements vary depending on each dispensary’s licence conditions and business model.

Businesses found violating cannabis regulations may face licence suspensions ranging from 30 to 90 days, in addition to other penalties provided under applicable Thai law.