Cannabis Laws in Thailand

Cannabis Laws in Thailand were some of the harshest in the world. The possession, trafficking, and use of cannabis used to be punishable by up to 15 years imprisonment. However, this is changing as Thailand moves towards decriminalization. Now there are shops and dispensaries opening up all around the country, such as this Phuket weed delivery website. 

Cannabis Laws Thailand: The Harsh Reality

Previously, cannabis was illegal in Thailand, and those caught trafficking or using it would face harsh penalties. In recent years, the Thai government had intensified its campaign against cannabis, with police conducting raids and making arrests across the country on a regular basis.

Those caught with small amounts of cannabis could be fined, imprisoned, or both. For example, in 2017 a British national was fined 5,000 baht (about $150 USD) after he was caught with a single joint of weed in Pattaya. Foreigners caught trafficking drugs in Thailand could even face the death penalty.

The harsh reality was that cannabis users and traffickers in Thailand would face severe consequences, including imprisonment and even the death penalty. This meant it was important for foreigners to be aware of Thai cannabis laws before traveling or living in Thailand.

Decriminalization of Cannabis in Thailand

Cannabis was a controlled substance in Thailand, and possession of even small amounts could lead to a prison sentence. However, recently the laws were changed and the decriminalization of cannabis in Thailand began. This was seen as a way to provide a much-needed source of income for the country.

Supporters of Decriminalization 

Supporters of decriminalization argue that cannabis is less harmful than alcohol or tobacco and that it could be used to produce medicinal products or even exported for use in other countries. They also point out that cannabis is already widely used in Thailand, and that prohibition has failed to stop its use.

Opponents of Decriminalization

However, there are also many opponents of decriminalization, who argue that cannabis is dangerous and addictive and that it could lead to increases in crime and drug use. They also warn that decriminalization could damage Thailand’s reputation and relationships with other countries.

It is still too early to tell what the future of cannabis will be in Thailand. However, it seems likely that the country will continue to move towards decriminalization, with the possibility of full legalization in the future. This would provide a much-needed boost to the Thai economy and could help to reduce crime and illegal drug use, especially in areas that were hit hard by the lack of tourism in recent years, such as Chiang Mai and Phuket. 

What You Need to Know About Cannabis Laws in Thailand

Cannabis is illegal in Thailand, and those caught possessing, using, or trafficking previously would face severe penalties. While the laws were strictly enforced, cannabis use was still relatively common in the country. Previously the laws about cannabis laws in Thailand were:

  • Possessing, using, or trafficking cannabis could result in a prison sentence of up to five years, a fine of up to 100,000 baht (approximately $2,900), or both.
  • Cultivating cannabis could result in a prison sentence of up to 10 years, a fine of up to 200,000 baht (approximately $5,800), or both.
  • Importing or exporting cannabis could result in a prison sentence of up to 15 years, a fine of up to 3 million baht (approximately $87,000), or both.
  • The possession of small amounts of cannabis were punishable by a fine, imprisonment, or both.

While it is technically legal now, there are many grey areas and exceptions. If you’re thinking of traveling to Thailand and want to enjoy some cannabis during your trip, be aware of the risks involved and make sure you research beforehand so that you can avoid any trouble with the law.

Conclusion

Cannabis Laws in Thailand are currently in a state of flux. While recreational marijuana use is technically still illegal, there has been a recent push to decriminalize the drug with new legislation that was introduced in February 2019. The laws surrounding cannabis in Thailand are also poorly enforced with many police officers not even knowing the specifics of the new laws. 

This means that Cannabis use in Thailand, while technically illegal, is widely tolerated and you are unlikely to face any penalties for possession of small amounts of the drug. However, it is still advisable to be aware of the risks involved before traveling to Thailand or consuming cannabis while in public in the country.