The re-criminalization of cannabis in Thailand poses the threat of street demonstrations and legal actions from within the industry.
Thailand’s recent move to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic has ignited concerns over potential ramifications, including the likelihood of street protests and the initiation of class-action lawsuits by the proprietors of numerous dispensaries that proliferated across the nation following the decriminalization of cannabis two years ago. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s announcement on Wednesday, mandating a complete re-criminalization of cannabis, has stirred apprehensions about the future of the cannabis industry. Rattapon Sanrak, owner of the well-known Bangkok-based dispensary, Highland Cafe, has voiced concerns about the potential consequences of this decision, suggesting that it will drive the cannabis trade underground, away from regulatory oversight.
In response to this controversial decision, Thailand’s Cannabis Future, an advocacy group dedicated to promoting progressive cannabis policies, has declared its intention to organize a protest in Bangkok on May 16th. The protest aims to raise awareness about the perceived adverse effects of reclassifying cannabis and to advocate for more lenient regulations that accommodate the evolving landscape of cannabis legalization and its associated industries. This development underscores the complex interplay between public policy, social activism, and the burgeoning cannabis market in Thailand.
Thailand’s current classification of cannabis as a “controlled herb” has permitted the operation of nearly 8,000 dispensaries across the country since its decriminalization in 2022. However, Prime Minister Srettha’s recent directive to reclassify cannabis as a “category five” narcotic signals a significant policy shift. Under Thai drug laws, this reclassification would criminalize various activities related to cannabis, including production, sale, import, export, possession, and recreational use. Nevertheless, the premier has assured that cannabis for medical and health purposes will remain permissible.
The impending policy change has stirred frustration and concern among stakeholders in the cannabis industry, including Rattapon, who highlighted the abrupt nature of the impending regulatory adjustment. In response, preparations are underway for potential protests and legal challenges to contest the reclassification.
This policy reversal marks a setback for Thailand’s burgeoning cannabis sector, which had been envisioned as a means to bolster agricultural income and promote wellness tourism. The liberalization of cannabis laws had become a contentious political issue leading up to Thailand’s national election last year. However, with the failure to establish comprehensive regulations for the marijuana industry, apprehensions grew regarding the societal repercussions of widespread access to the drug and the potential for addiction.
The recent policy reversal stems from the hard-line anti-drug campaign of the ruling Pheu Thai Party, led by Prime Minister Srettha. Srettha’s directive, issued earlier this week, imposes a 90-day deadline for law enforcement and local authorities to intensify drug enforcement efforts in 25 provinces designated as “red zones.”
Despite the Bhumjaithai Party’s previous role in spearheading the decriminalization policy, which is now part of Srettha’s government, they advocate for a regulatory bill to oversee recreational cannabis use instead of a complete ban. However, the prime minister defended the decision, asserting that all actions are taken in the interest of the people.
Thailand’s fledgling cannabis industry has grappled with legal uncertainties from its inception due to legislative disagreements over regulation. Previous attempts to pass bills controlling cannabis use were hindered by political maneuvering, including a recent effort by the Srettha government to tighten regulations on cultivation, sales, and exports. Despite over a million households registering for cannabis cultivation and commercial interest, the impending reclassification of cannabis as a category five drug could result in severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and hefty fines.
Advocates for cannabis are urging health authorities to conduct a comprehensive assessment of cannabis compared to substances like alcohol and cigarettes, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based decision-making. The ongoing policy shifts not only jeopardize foreign investor confidence but also pose significant challenges for the cannabis industry, potentially leading to closures of legitimate businesses, job losses, and income reductions for growers.
Rattapon, owner of Highland Cafe, warns against the adverse effects of pushing the cannabis market underground instead of implementing proper regulation, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to industry oversight.