Thai authorities have intensified their efforts to regulate the country’s cannabis industry in Thailand, shutting down more than 1,000 shops and seizing nearly a tonne of cannabis flowers in a wide-reaching operation conducted over the past two months.
Between 16 June and 13 August 2025, the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine (DTAM) inspected 5,218 cannabis dispensaries across Thailand. Out of the 18,763 shops registered nationwide, 724 licences were suspended, 129 were revoked, and 180 businesses were prosecuted for operating without valid permits. A total of 1,079 shops have now been permanently closed.
The operation also led to 116 seizures of cannabis products and 33 arrests for attempted smuggling through Bangkok’s two main airports, Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang Airport. Altogether, authorities confiscated 980 kilograms of cannabis.
This enforcement campaign follows growing public concerns since Thailand legalised cannabis in 2022, making it the first Asian country to decriminalise marijuana. While the change was promoted for medical benefits and tourism potential, officials have faced mounting complaints about misuse, including unlicensed sales, smoking inside cannabis shops, sales to minors, public nuisances, and advertising violations. According to DTAM, 176 formal complaints have been filed, with unlicensed sales being the most common issue.
Dr. Thewan Thaneerat, Deputy Director-General of DTAM, stressed that cannabis should only be used in ways that support health and social wellbeing. “Strict regulation is necessary to protect young people and to ensure the Thai cannabis industry grows responsibly,” he said.
Authorities emphasised that cannabis shop inspections are now a weekly practice. The most recent sweep on 13 August involved joint operations with police in Bangkok and neighbouring Nonthaburi. Out of 17 dispensaries checked that day, two were found to be operating without a licence and faced prosecution, while another was suspended for breaching licence conditions.
D. Nantasak Chotichanadechawong, Director of the Office for Protection and Promotion of Thai Traditional and Folk Medicine Wisdom, described the campaign as proactive and ongoing.
The DTAM is urging members of the public to report suspicious cannabis-related activities by calling 0-2591-7007 or visiting www.dtam.moph.go.th. Officials say continued cooperation between communities, businesses, and government agencies is essential to ensuring cannabis in Thailand remains both safe and socially beneficial.
What Expats Should Know About Cannabis in Thailand
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Medical use only: Cannabis in Thailand is legally intended for medical and health purposes, not for recreational use.
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Licensed dispensaries only: Buy from government-approved cannabis shops to avoid fines or legal problems.
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No smoking in public: Smoking cannabis in public spaces, including streets, bars, and parks, is illegal.
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Age restrictions: Sales to people under 20, as well as to pregnant or breastfeeding women, are prohibited.
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Airport warning: Carrying cannabis or marijuana products through airports counts as smuggling and can lead to arrest.
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Check updated laws: Rules on cannabis in Thailand are changing quickly. Always confirm the latest regulations before purchasing or consuming.
