Thailand to Ban Recreational Cannabis Amid Public Pressure

The government moves to focus on medicinal use only, following concerns over potential drug problems after 2022 decriminalization.

Thailand's government plans to urgently propose a bill to ban recreational cannabis use, focusing solely on medicinal purposes.
The move comes after public pressure and concerns over potential wider drug problems following the decriminalization of cannabis in 2022.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who opposes recreational use, will review the bill next week.
The decision to decriminalize cannabis in 2022 led to a surge in dispensaries, especially in Bangkok, raising concerns among critics.
A recent Coldplay concert in Bangkok, where attendees complained about the smell of marijuana, reignited the debate over cannabis use.