- Why It Matters: Expanding medical cannabis through traditional medicine can improve access for rural communities, offering affordable healthcare options in Thailand.
- Driving The News: MP NICHAPA SUVANNANAK supports using medical cannabis in local health centers, emphasizing traditional medicine’s role in the country’s healthcare.
- Zoom In: By 2030, Thailand’s herbal exports are expected to reach 80 billion baht, with medical cannabis playing a significant role in this growth.
BANGKOK, THAILAND โ On September 13th, during the second joint session of the National Assembly, MP NICHAPA SUVANNANAK emphasized the importance of integrating medical cannabis into Thailand’s healthcare system, particularly through traditional medicine. NICHAPA advocated for the use of medical cannabis exclusively in local health centers (Rural Health Centers or เธฃเธ.เธชเธ.) under the guidance of Thai traditional medicine practitioners. This move aims to make medical cannabis more accessible, especially for those in rural areas who might not afford expensive treatments.
NICHAPA highlighted that Thailandโs traditional medicine, often overshadowed by modern medical practices, has the potential to be a significant contributor to the country’s healthcare and economy. With the global market for Thai herbs estimated to reach 2.7 trillion baht by 2030, medical cannabis could play a pivotal role in boosting Thailandโs herbal exports, which are expected to grow by 58%, reaching 80 billion baht in the same period.
While supporting the economic potential of medical cannabis, NICHAPA stressed that its use should be strictly for medical purposes and should be managed by qualified traditional medicine practitioners. This ensures that cannabis is used responsibly, focusing on the well-being of patients, particularly those who cannot afford more costly medical treatments.
The call for enhancing traditional medicine also included a proposal to establish a Ministry of Traditional or Alternative Medicine. NICHAPA argued that, like China, which has successfully integrated traditional medicine into its national healthcare system, Thailand should elevate its traditional practices to a similar level of recognition and respect. This would not only preserve Thai cultural heritage but also expand the reach of affordable healthcare across the nation.
