Thai authorities removed cannabis from their banned narcotics list on June 9 and the country is now enjoying a boom in legalized cannabis cultivation and consumption. But politicians have yet to agree on how to regulate and control the new industry.
The Thai government has a few options in how to regulate the growing, selling and distribution of cannabis. While a law is unlikely to be passed before the next general election, a belated version could be reintroduced in parliament as early as this week.
Legality
Despite its decriminalization in June, Thailand still considers marijuana a public health risk. Smoking cannabis in public is still illegal and could result in a three-month jail sentence and 25,000 baht ($780) fine.
Those who want to consume it are encouraged to do so for medical reasons only. However, they must follow rules that restrict the use of cannabis-infused food and drinks to cafes and restaurants.
In addition, any products containing cannabis extracts that have more than 0.2% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the chemical that makes you high, remain on the country's narcotics list.
With the legalization of weed, Thai entrepreneurs and small operators are rushing to cash in on the potential of the industry. Some are launching weed-related businesses, including marijuana dispensaries and cultivation services. Others are experimenting with ways to market the burgeoning market to tourists. Some even offer classes on how to roll joints and brew weed tea.
Regulations
In June, Thailand legalized the production of cannabis and its consumption in food and drinks, removing it from the country’s banned narcotics list. The move was intended to boost the nation’s agriculture and tourism industries and allow the plant to be used for medicinal purposes.
But while the industry is growing, lawmakers have yet to draft regulations that clearly define the law. Opposition parties warn that the law may be exploited by big conglomerates to gain an unfair advantage over small producers.
Despite the uncertainty, some entrepreneurs are rushing into the cannabis business, eager to take advantage of the growing market. They say the industry is a wild west, where anyone with cash can make a quick buck.
As a result, it’s important to keep up with the latest regulations. It’s also recommended to seek legal advice before entering the market. The country’s narcotics laws are complex, so it’s best to consult an experienced attorney to avoid unintended consequences.
Taxes
Cannabis laws in Thailand have been a major topic of discussion since the government decriminalized the plant last month. It removed marijuana from the banned category 5 narcotics list, making it legal for Thais to grow and sell their own.
However, recreational use of the plant is still discouraged and smoking cannabis in public may be considered a nuisance. Authorities have warned that anyone who smokes marijuana in public could be fined.
The country is also promoting the cultivation of cannabis and hemp, which can be used for medical purposes. Medicinal cannabis products can be prescribed by doctors and traditional healers, and patients can use these medicines in hospitals or clinics.
During cannabis cultivation, strict controls are in place to avoid abuse, including requiring all cannabis plants to be grown indoors. This means that producers will need to invest in the necessary infrastructure, such as lighting and ventilation systems, to meet their production goals. This will increase their costs by a factor of five, but it should also reduce the risk of ill-gotten profits or illegal trafficking.
Applicability
The government of Thailand announced in June that it will no longer prosecute people for marijuana-related crimes. This is a major policy shift that reflects a growing realisation that marijuana is no longer a criminal justice issue and is instead a health concern.
In Thailand, a country with a long history of drug crackdowns, this is a huge win for those who have been negatively impacted by cannabis-related laws. Thousands of inmates who were arrested for their possession of cannabis have been released, and many have had their records removed.
While it’s true that the government has decriminalised cannabis, there are still a number of restrictions in place. This is particularly true in terms of public nuisance laws which can lead to a fine or prison sentence.
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