Story perspectives

Thailand Tightens Cannabis Sales Ahead of Election, Dispensaries at Risk

1/7/2026

Summary

Story summary

Thailand, the first Asian country to decriminalize cannabis in 2022, will restrict cannabis sales to licensed medical facilities, pharmacies, and herbal-product shops before the February election.
Since mid-2025, buyers must obtain medical prescriptions.
Dispensaries must sell cannabis from certified farms.
Public Health Minister Pattana Promphat said the changes will not impact patients using cannabis for medical purposes.
The changes could lead to the closure of over 7,000 dispensaries in 2026.

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Story summary

Thailand, the first Asian country to decriminalize cannabis in 2022, will restrict cannabis sales to licensed medical facilities, pharmacies, and herbal-product shops before the February election.
Since mid-2025, buyers must obtain medical prescriptions.
Dispensaries must sell cannabis from certified farms.
Public Health Minister Pattana Promphat said the changes will not impact patients using cannabis for medical purposes.
The changes could lead to the closure of over 7,000 dispensaries in 2026.