Thailand to force cannabis shops into medical model as numbers plunge
Thailand's government is shifting cannabis shops towards a medical model, requiring operators to upgrade into medical facilities staffed by qualified professionals. The move aims to ensure cannabis is dispensed within a proper medical setting, with the government continuing to support medical cannabis under stricter controls.
Thailand's government is pushing cannabis shops into a medical framework. Only 15% of the original 18,000 shops remain, with operators required to upgrade into medical facilities. Public Health Minister Pattana Phromphat announced the shift, citing the need for stricter controls on cultivation, extraction, and use. Cannabis shops will need to be staffed by qualified professionals, such as doctors or traditional medicine practitioners. The government will closely monitor licence renewals and introduce a three-year transition period for businesses to adjust. The move aims to make access to medical cannabis more clearly tied to treatment and healthcare services.
This content was automatically generated and/or translated by AI. It may contain inaccuracies. Please refer to the original sources for verification.