Last updated on June 24th, 2024 at 10:16 am
- Driving The News: Deputy PM Anutin Charnvirakul emphasizes that the decision to reclassify cannabis rests with the Anti-Narcotics Board.
- Why It Matters: The reclassification of cannabis could significantly impact businesses and investors in Thailand’s burgeoning cannabis industry.
- The Big Picture: Anutin highlights the economic investments made in the cannabis sector and calls for compensation if reclassification occurs.
BANGKOK, THAILAND – Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior ANUTIN CHARNVIRAKUL has reiterated that the decision to reclassify cannabis as a controlled substance will be determined by the Anti-Narcotics Board (ONCB). He emphasized that this is not a matter of personal opinion but one that concerns the public’s benefit and should be handled through proper channels.
Addressing recent actions by cannabis business operators who petitioned the Ministry of Public Health to oppose reclassification, Anutin pointed out that the Prime Minister has called for a thorough review of the issue. He noted that various ministers have different policies and that a comprehensive evaluation of the benefits and drawbacks observed over the past two years of legalization is necessary.
Anutin stressed the importance of compensating businesses that have invested billions of baht in the cannabis industry should reclassification occur. He called for a detailed examination of the data used by the ONCB during the initial decriminalization compared to current information.
“I am not backing down or conceding,” Anutin stated firmly. “This is not about personal gain but about what benefits the people. As politicians, our personal views should not dictate policy.”
Anutin also reaffirmed Bhumjaithai Party’s stance, which has consistently supported cannabis legalization as per the government’s stated policy to the parliament. He criticized attempts to reverse cannabis legalization, emphasizing that Bhumjaithai has fulfilled its campaign promises by implementing cannabis policies in 2019 and 2021-2023.
The Deputy PM also addressed concerns about internal government disagreements, asserting that the coalition remains united. He mentioned that the proposed Cannabis Control Bill, which aims to establish clear regulations, had been previously blocked but has been reintroduced for consideration.
Anutin concluded by denying any personal concessions on the matter, maintaining that all decisions will follow legal and regulatory frameworks.
Contributing Sources: INN News
