- Why It Matters: Deputy Prime Minister SOMSAK THEPSUTHIN highlights the incomplete legal framework for cannabis in Thailand, pointing to the need for comprehensive laws.
- The Big Picture: The absence of supportive legislation post-decriminalization leaves the cannabis industry and its stakeholders in a state of uncertainty.
- Driving The News: SOMSAK suggests looking to the kratom plant model as a template for creating a robust and complete legal structure for cannabis.
BANGKOK, THAILAND – In a recent announcement at the Government House, Deputy Prime Minister SOMSAK THEPSUTHIN expressed concerns over the current state of cannabis legislation in Thailand. His comments come in light of Prime Minister SETTHA THAVISIN’s desire to reclassify cannabis as a controlled substance, emphasizing the distinct legal paths between kratom and cannabis.
Kratom, now supported by its own set of laws and regulations, stands in stark contrast to cannabis, which, despite being decriminalized, lacks a solid legal framework. SOMSAK pointed out that while the unlocking of the drug code for cannabis was a significant step forward, it has left the process incomplete without specific laws to govern its use and distribution.
On April 1, during discussions about kratom and other medicinal plants, it was revealed that the industry could potentially generate income ranging from 2 to 4 billion baht. However, with kratom’s inclusion and a correct, complete legal framework, this figure could soar to tens of billions of baht, highlighting the economic potential of these plants for Thailand. The comparison with cannabis is glaring, as the latter still flounders without legal backing, forcing stakeholders to navigate a murky legal landscape.
“The optimal way forward is to ensure a complete legal framework, whether we choose to decriminalize or not,” stated SOMSAK. He criticized the current situation as laughable due to the absence of supportive legislation, underscoring the need for a serious approach to lawmaking.
This call to action stresses the urgency of establishing a comprehensive legal structure for cannabis that mirrors the clarity and completeness seen with kratom. As discussions continue, the future of cannabis in Thailand hangs in the balance, awaiting a legal blueprint that could unlock its full potential.
Contributing Sources: Matichon.
