The Ministerial Regulation on the Permission for Study, Research, Export, Sale, or Processing of Controlled Herbs for Commercial Purposes (the “Ministerial Regulation”) strengthens the regulation of cannabis flower for medical purposes. It requires prior permission for the export, processing, or sale of cannabis flower, while cultivation for personal use is not an offence. Existing licenses remain valid until expiry, but renewals must comply with the new criteria.
The Ministerial Regulation introduces three key measures: stricter standards for medical cannabis dispensaries, enhanced inspection powers for competent officials, and the use of digital technology for regulatory supervision.
Operators permitted to sell cannabis flower must operate through a medical facility, a place for the production or sale of medicines or herbal products, or a certified traditional healer. They must also comply with storage, odour and smoke control, and staff training requirements.
Competent officials may inspect premises, examine documents, seize or attach items, and arrest sellers operating without permission.
The Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine has also introduced digital tools for reporting unlawful activities, verifying shop and cultivation locations, checking license expiry dates, and providing technical support.
Cannabis in Thailand Now Subject to Stricter Medical-Oriented Licensing Controls_Bangkok Global Law