Government to establish regulations for selling marijuana flower buds within the Health Sector
In June 2025, Thailand enacted a series of changes to its cannabis regulations, focusing on medical use only and restricting access to patients under proper supervision.
The Ministry of Public Health has classified cannabis flower buds as a "controlled herb" under the new Ministerial Notification on Controlled Herbs (Cannabis) 2025. This move marks a significant shift in Thailand's cannabis landscape, with the aim to regulate and control the use of cannabis for medical purposes.
To sell cannabis flower buds, vendors must obtain approval from their local administrative organisations and a sales licence. All cultivation sites must meet medical-grade standards, and the cannabis flower buds must be accompanied by lab analyses. The sale of cannabis flower buds now requires official authorisation and must be conducted strictly in accordance with a valid prescription issued by licensed professionals.
Dispensaries licensed to sell cannabis flower buds must adhere to strict guidelines. They must have a medical professional or authorised practitioner stationed at the premises at all times. All dispensaries are required to retain copies of each prescription on-site for at least one year to allow for future audits.
Prescriptions for cannabis must use the standardised Phor Thor 33 form. The supply is limited to a maximum 30-day quantity per issuance to prevent misuse and overstocking. The intended duration of use is capped at 30 days per prescription.
The authorised professional groups to prescribe cannabis include medical doctors, Thai traditional medicine practitioners, dentists, pharmacists, Chinese medicine practitioners, applied traditional medicine practitioners, and licensed folk healers. All prescribers must be trained and certified by the health ministry.
Existing cannabis businesses must transition from recreational sales to medical-only operations, requiring new licenses, mandatory qualified medical staff, and updated compliance systems. This framework will reduce cannabis outlets from thousands to only those capable of meeting these medical criteria by year-end 2025.
Cannabis consumers, including international visitors, must have a valid medical prescription and accompanying official medical certificate (Phor Thor 33) to legally purchase and possess cannabis in Thailand. Mere possession of a medical cannabis card without a prescription is insufficient for legal protection.
Enforcement is active with penalties including fines (up to 20,000 baht) and possible imprisonment for illegal possession or purchase without a prescription. Public smoking remains illegal despite medical legalization.
In summary, Thailand's 2025 cannabis law overhaul enforces a stringent medical framework that mandates licensed medical prescriptions, on-site doctor supervision in dispensaries, standardized authorizations, and rigorous business licensing criteria to fully control cannabis prescriptions and sales nationwide.
- The international business community is closely watching Thailand's new regulations on cannabis, focusing on medical use.
- The economy of Thailand may see a boost from the legalization of medicinal cannabis, particularly in the health-and-wellness industry.
- Cannabis is not just for recreation; it has significant potential in the treatment of chronic diseases and cancer.
- Respiratory conditions, digestive health, eye health, and hearing issues can potentially benefit from cannabis-based therapies and treatments.
- Skin care products infused with cannabidiol ( CBD ) are gaining popularity in the industry as a natural remedy for various skin conditions.
- Mental health is another area where cannabis may be useful, although more research is needed to understand its effects.
- Fitness and exercise enthusiasts are investigating cannabis as a potential alternative to conventional pain management methods.
- Autoimmune disorders can cause chronic inflammation, and some researchers believe cannabis may help manage these conditions.
- Nutritionists are exploring the role of cannabis in overall health and wellness, particularly in relation to its non-psychoactive compounds.
- Cardiovascular health is an essential aspect of overall health, and some studies suggest that moderate cannabis consumption may have heart benefits.
- In the field of science, collaboration between medical professionals, researchers, and the cannabis industry is crucial for advancing our understanding of this plant's potential benefits.
- As the cannabis industry evolves, the need for responsible finance, investing, and wealth management becomes increasingly important for both individuals and businesses.
- Homes and gardens may see improvements with innovative solutions that incorporate medicinal plants like cannabis for various purposes.
- Gadgets and technology play a crucial role in the medical cannabis industry, from farming equipment to lab analysis tools.
- Data and cloud computing are essential for managing patient information, prescriptions, and inventory in the context of cannabis sales.
- The rise of artificial intelligence could revolutionize the cannabis industry, from precision farming to personalized medicine.
- Relationships between patients, healthcare providers, and businesses in the cannabis industry are integral to its success.
- Pet owners are increasingly interested in the potential benefits of cannabis for their animal companions' health.
- With the legalization of medical cannabis, travel experiences might be enhanced by the availability of legal cannabis products in countries that allow it.
- Car manufacturers could explore the use of hemp-based materials in vehicle production, contributing to the overall sustainability of their products.
- Cybersecurity measures are essential in the cannabis industry, protecting sensitive patient and business data from unauthorized access.
- Personal finance and banking are becoming more accommodating to cannabis businesses, recognizing their economic potential.
- Insurance companies are developing policies to cover medical cannabis costs, making it more accessible to patients.
- Fashion and beauty brands might incorporate cannabis-based ingredients into their product lines for their purported skin-care benefits.
- The food and drink industry is exploring edible cannabis products, adding new offerings to their menus or product lines.
- Education and self-development programs are emerging, providing knowledge and resources for individuals interested in career opportunities in the cannabis industry.
- Personal growth can be aided with responsible cannabis use as part of a holistic health and wellness approach.
- Big wins in the cannabis industry could lead to significant financial gains for those who invest wisely.
- Shopping for cannabis products may become as common as buying groceries, depending on the regulations in various regions.
- Career development opportunities abound in the cannabis industry, particularly for those who are passionate about this plant's potential benefits and willing to learn and adapt to the changing landscape.
