Thailand’s Cannabis Legalization: A Complete Guide to Staying Within the Law

Thailand has made history as the first country in Southeast Asia to decriminalize cannabis. While this has opened up exciting opportunities for both locals and tourists, the laws surrounding cannabis remain complex. Misunderstanding the regulations could result in legal trouble, so it’s essential to stay informed. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Thailand’s cannabis laws, ensuring you stay within legal boundaries.


Understanding the Legal Status of Cannabis in Thailand

As of June 9, 2022, cannabis and hemp were removed from Thailand’s list of controlled substances. This means that growing, selling, and consuming cannabis is no longer classified as a criminal offense. However, it does not mean that cannabis is fully legalized for recreational use. The primary focus of the new laws is medical, industrial, and economic development, not unrestricted personal consumption.


Cultivation and Possession: What’s Allowed?

Growing Cannabis

  • Thai citizens can legally cultivate cannabis for personal or commercial purposes.
  • Cultivation must be registered with the government via the Plook Ganja mobile app or other official channels.
  • Businesses looking to sell cannabis-based products may require additional permits.

Possession Limits

  • There are currently no specific possession limits for cannabis plant parts like leaves and flowers.
  • Cannabis extracts with more than 0.2% THC remain classified as a Category 5 narcotic, meaning they are still illegal without the proper medical or research authorization.

⚠️ Important Warning: Tourists should not assume that they can grow cannabis or possess large quantities without restrictions. While Thai citizens can cultivate cannabis legally, foreigners must ensure they comply with Thai regulations and do not misuse their visas for cultivation or sales.


Cannabis Consumption: Where and How Can You Use It?

Medical Cannabis

  • Medical cannabis is legal, and patients can obtain prescriptions from licensed doctors.
  • If you are using cannabis for medical reasons, always carry a valid prescription when traveling in Thailand.

🚫 Recreational Use Restrictions

  • Cannabis is not fully legalized for recreational use, even though enforcement varies.
  • Smoking cannabis in public places (parks, shopping centers, restaurants, etc.) is illegal and can result in fines.
  • Hotels and Airbnb rentals may have policies against cannabis consumption. Always check beforehand.

Can You Buy and Sell Cannabis in Thailand?

Retail Sales

  • Cannabis products can be sold legally in licensed dispensaries, but they must not be marketed toward minors (under 20), pregnant women, or breastfeeding women.
  • Many dispensaries sell flowers, edibles, and infused products, but these should not exceed the 0.2% THC limit for extracts.

🚫 Illegal Sales & Black Market Risks

  • Selling high-THC cannabis products without authorization is illegal.
  • Importing or exporting cannabis across borders is strictly forbidden and can lead to severe penalties.

Traveling with Cannabis in Thailand: What You Need to Know

✈️ Can You Bring Cannabis into Thailand?

  • No! Do not bring cannabis, CBD oil, or edibles into Thailand, even if they are legal in your home country.
  • Airports have strict drug laws, and violating them can result in arrest, fines, or deportation.

✈️ Can You Take Cannabis Out of Thailand?

  • Absolutely not. Carrying cannabis across Thai borders is a criminal offense, and other countries may have harsh penalties for cannabis possession.

Key Takeaways: How to Stay Safe & Legal

✔️ You can cultivate cannabis if you’re a Thai citizen, but registration is required.
✔️ Cannabis extracts over 0.2% THC remain illegal without special authorization.
✔️ Medical cannabis is allowed with a valid prescription.
✔️ Public consumption is illegal and can lead to fines.
✔️ Do not bring cannabis into or out of Thailand.

Thailand’s cannabis laws are still evolving, and authorities may introduce stricter regulations in the future. If you’re in Thailand, always stay up to date on local laws to avoid any legal issues.


This guide ensures you can enjoy cannabis legally and responsibly in Thailand while avoiding unnecessary risks. Stay informed, stay safe, and respect the local laws! 🌿