Lifestyle
Thailand Shocks Industry: Cannabis Set to Be Recriminalized, $1B Market at Risk
Bangkok, June 26, 2025 – Thailand’s government is set to recriminalize cannabis by the end of 2025, reversing its 2022 decision to legalize it. The move puts a $1 billion industry at risk and has sparked concern among businesses and farmers. Here’s what’s happening.
Why the Change
The decision has clear reasons:
- Leaders worry about young people using cannabis too much.
- Some officials say it goes against traditional values.
- A shop owner said, “We thought legalization was here to stay.”
The shift came after political tensions.
New Rules
The law will tighten control:
- Cannabis will be listed as a restricted drug again.
- Only medical use with a doctor’s note will be allowed.
- An X post read, “This could shut down thousands of shops.”
Penalties may include fines or jail.
Industry Impact
Businesses are worried:
- Many cannabis shops and farmers fear they’ll have to close.
- Tourism may suffer, as cannabis drew visitors to places like Bangkok.
- A farmer noted, “My crops were my future—now I’m not sure.”
The economic ripple is large.
Global Picture
Thailand stands out:
- Countries like the US and Canada are expanding legal cannabis.
- Experts say better rules could fix problems without a ban.
- An X user wrote, “Thailand’s going backward on this.”
The world is watching.
What’s Next
The future is uncertain:
- Groups plan to protest the new law in coming months.
- Businesses are rushing to sell their stock before rules kick in.
- A local said, “We’ll fight to keep our livelihoods.”
The debate is heating up.
