Last updated on October 9th, 2024 at 08:28 am
- Why It Matters: Thailand’s evolving cannabis laws could set a precedent for the region, with widespread implications for medical use and economic growth.
- The Big Picture: Delays in cannabis legislation risk undermining the legal cannabis industry, while illicit operations continue to thrive without proper regulation.
- What To Watch: Whether the Thai government will prioritize the cannabis bill in upcoming legislative sessions to ensure swift reform and proper regulation.
BANGKOK, THAILAND โ In a strongly worded public statement, PANTHEP PUAPONGPAN, Dean of the Faculty of Oriental Medicine at Rangsit University, has urged the Thai government to expedite the Cannabis and Hemp Bill. He outlined a six-point proposal that calls for immediate legislative action to ensure the safe, regulated use of cannabis for medical, economic, and health benefits.
PANTHEP argued that the Ministry of Public Health should prioritize the cannabis bill, as it represents a significant step forward in utilizing cannabis for medicinal and economic purposes. He emphasized that cannabis should not return to being classified under Thailandโs strict narcotics laws, as its benefits far outweigh the risks when properly regulated.
“The current patchwork of cannabis-related laws creates confusion and allows for loopholes that lead to illegal activities, such as unlicensed foreign-run cannabis shops and unregulated online sales,” PANTHEP said in his public address. He stressed the need for comprehensive legislation that would cover all aspects of cannabis use, including cultivation, sale, and medical application.
There are currently four cannabis-related bills under consideration, but they have faced delays due to political and bureaucratic obstacles. PANTHEP warned that further delays could harm the cannabis industry and prevent Thailand from fully benefiting from the plantโs economic and health potentials.
The proposal also calls for removing cannabis extracts with THC levels above 0.2% from Thailandโs narcotics list once the new law is passed. This move, PANTHEP argues, would streamline regulations and ensure that medical professionals and patients can access cannabis safely and legally.
Contributing Sources: Manager Online.
