The legalization of medicinal cannabis in Thailand

It was in 2019 that Thailand’s Narcotic Act allowed for some limited use of cannabis for medical purposes. Under this amendment, modern drugs formulated with cannabis, hemp extract, or other cannabinoids required regulatory review and licensing from the Thai FDA under the Drug Act, with one of the prerequisite conditions being that the cannabis must be grown in Thailand.

MoPH announced the delisting of both cannabis and hemp plants and their unprocessed parts from the Narcotics Act (2021). Further, CBD extract with less than 0.3% THC by weight that has been extracted from cannabis or hemp cultivated in Thailand is no longer classified as a narcotic. As a result, those substances are now available for medical use.

The use of CBD in Thailand

Although medical cannabis has been legalized, the use of CBD is still strictly regulated in Thailand. CBD products can only have a THC content of 0.3% or less and must be approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in Thailand. Medical cannabis products are available at public and private hospitals/clinics and pharmacies.

Only medical use of marijuana is permitted. Smoking cannabis for recreational purposes is prohibited, and only authorized cannabis products may be in possession.

Importing CBD into Thailand

Importing CBD into Thailand is strictly prohibited unless you have a special permit from the FDA in Thailand. Upon returning to your home country, you must also check the local laws on CBD to avoid complications.

The penalties for illegal possession of CBD in Thailand

The Public Health Act states that anyone who smokes cannabis or hemp and whose smoke or odor is deemed offensive without a valid defense faces up to a month in jail or a fine of up to THB 2,000.

6 tips you need to know when traveling to Thailand:

  1. Transporting any portion of the cannabis plant, including seeds, either into or out of Thailand for individual use is strictly prohibited.
  2. Growing cannabis is permitted. However, it's mandatory to register via the Food and Drug Administration's "Plook Ganja" app or on the official government website.
  3. Obtaining an official license is essential for the use of cannabis flower buds in activities such as research, export, sales, and commercial processing.
  4. Individuals below 20 years of age, along with pregnant and breastfeeding women, are prohibited from using cannabis unless under the guidance of healthcare professionals.
  5. Authorized restaurants offer dishes that include cannabis as an ingredient.
  6. Health products containing approved cannabis can be obtained through designated channels.

Conclusion and Answers to the Questions

CBD is only legal in Thailand for medical purposes under strict conditions and regulations. You can buy or sell CBD in Thailand if you have a special permit. Just remember the restrictions: it is prescribed by a doctor and has a THC content of 0.3% or less.

Penalties for illegal possession of CBD in Thailand may result in a month in jail or a fine of up to THB 2,000. Tourists are not allowed to bring any part of the cannabis plant or its seeds into or out of the country. Additionally, possessing extracts with a THC concentration above 0.3% is subject to authorization, which tourists are typically not granted.

Always know the local laws and regulations before traveling to avoid complications with the law. 

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws regarding CBD oil are subject to change and may vary.