Thailand to force cannabis shops into medical model as numbers plunge
Thailand's new government is pushing cannabis shops into a medical framework, requiring them to upgrade into medical facilities with qualified professionals. The move aims to ensure cannabis is dispensed within a proper medical setting, with hospitals nationwide ready to dispense medical cannabis.
Thailand's government is shifting cannabis shops into a medical framework. Only 15% of the original 18,000 shops remain, with about 3,000 outlets likely to move towards the new model. Public Health Minister Pattana Phromphat announced that operators renewing their licences must upgrade into medical facilities. The government will support medical cannabis under stricter controls. Hospitals are ready to dispense medical cannabis, reinforcing the push to make access more clearly tied to treatment and healthcare services. A three-year transition period is given to operators to adjust to the new conditions.
This content was automatically generated and/or translated by AI. It may contain inaccuracies. Please refer to the original sources for verification.