Thailand legalized medical cannabis in 2018, followed by the removal of cannabis from the narcotics list in 2022, leading to an increase in people using cannabis joints and products. Thailand is currently experiencing a surge in cannabis interest, but it wasn’t always this way. Previously, Thailand held a strict stance on cannabis, making it one of the most stringent in the world. So, what prompted Thailand, which once had such a strict approach, to become the first in the Asian region to legalize cannabis? In this discussion, we’ll reflect on the history of cannabis in Thailand and explore the future prospects of the country’s cannabis industry.
History of Cannabis in Thailand
Thailand has had a historical connection with cannabis dating back centuries. Approximately 2700 years ago, in China, Emperor Shen Neng used cannabis as a medicinal remedy to alleviate pain and discomfort. Cannabis was also employed in ancient Rome and Egypt for various purposes. Smoking cannabis became a widespread habit in Arabia and the Middle East between the 9th and 11th centuries. In the northwestern Thai province of Tak, the Mon ethnic minority utilized the sturdy and soft hemp stems to create bags and clothing, while the roots and leaves were used for medicinal purposes.
During the 1960s, cannabis gained global popularity, and Thailand, situated in the Golden Triangle – an area spanning three countries known for the trafficking of cannabis and narcotics – saw increased trade in cannabis. The Vietnam War further contributed to the spread of cannabis use among soldiers in Southeast Asia, including Thailand. Consequently, the demand for cannabis surged in countries like the United States during the 1960s.
In the 1980s, as the global anti-drug movement intensified, Thailand, too, became involved in efforts to curb drug trafficking, resulting in the enactment of laws regulating cannabis. Possession and use of cannabis became subject to imprisonment and fines, with Thailand adopting stringent penalties compared to global standards.
In the 2000s, numerous studies highlighted the medicinal benefits of cannabis, leading to a growing demand for the legalization of medical cannabis within Thailand. This culminated in the legalization of medical cannabis in 2018, marking a rare development in Asia. By June 2022, cannabis was removed from the narcotics list, allowing for the consumption of cannabis products.
These progressive steps indicate that Thailand stands out in Asia for its high level of understanding and openness towards cannabis.