10 things you need to know about cannabis legalisation before travelling to Thailand

cannabis in Thailand has undergone a dramatic policy shift following the introduction of new restrictions in June 2025, just three years after becoming the first Asian country to decriminalise marijuana. These new regulations have entirely reshaped the legal landscape, now requiring a medical prescription for any cannabis purchase and limiting its use strictly to medical purposes. For travellers heading to the Thai kingdom in search of marijuana, it is essential to understand these new rules to avoid serious legal trouble.

On 25 June 2025, the Thai Government, through a notice published in the Royal Gazette, reclassified cannabis flower as a “controlled herb”. This immediate move effectively prohibits recreational use and returns the country to a strict medicinal-only cannabis model. The Public Health Minister’s message was unambiguous and directly addressed to tourists: “We want to tell tourists they are welcome to enjoy Thailand’s culture and nature, but our country should not be seen as a destination for recreational cannabis use.”

This change wasn’t gradual but the result of a swift political manoeuvre. The restriction had been a campaign promise by the ruling Pheu Thai party and was enacted just days after its main political rival on this issue, the Bhumjaithai party (which spearheaded the 2022 decriminalisation), left the governing coalition. This political victory means the new rules are highly likely to be strictly enforced to demonstrate the new administration’s resolve. For any traveller planning to visit Thailand with cannabis in mind, ignoring this new reality is not only unwise—it’s dangerous.

That’s why here are 10 key points you need to understand to navigate the new and restrictive legal landscape of cannabis in Thailand and stay out of legal trouble:

1. Adjust your expectations: recreational cannabis in Thailand is over

The idea of walking into one of the thousands of dispensaries that flourished across the country and buying cannabis for fun is now a thing of the past. The new regulation is explicit: cannabis in Thailand is for medical and health purposes only. Any travel plans based on the notion of Thailand as a recreational cannabis paradise must be abandoned immediately. Assuming old practices are still in place is the quickest route to a run-in with the authorities.

2. A medical prescription is your passport to buy cannabis in Thailand

The only legal way to acquire cannabis flower is with a valid medical prescription. This is the cornerstone of the new system:

Who can prescribe: the law permits licensed Thai medical professionals to issue prescriptions, including doctors, dentists, pharmacists, and practitioners of traditional Thai and Chinese medicine.

Foreign prescriptions: authorities have indicated that medical certificates from a tourist’s home country will be accepted, provided they correspond to a condition recognised by Thai regulations.

Process and limits: the prescription must state the dosage and is limited to a maximum 30-day supply.

Although the list of eligible conditions is broad, there is considerable risk. Reports have surfaced of dispensaries offering quick and cheap on-site “medical consultations” for minor complaints like insomnia. While this may seem convenient, it directly undermines the government’s goal of eliminating recreational use.

3. Buy only from legitimate, licensed dispensaries

Under the new rules, licensed dispensaries are forbidden from selling cannabis without verifying a medical prescription. They are also required to keep detailed records of sales and source their products only from farms certified under the government’s Good Agricultural and Collection Practices (GACP). Buying from street vendors or any shop that doesn’t request a prescription exposes you to poor quality or unsafe products and implicates you in an illegal transaction.

The regulatory shift has drastically affected the cannabis industry in Thailand. Over 18,000 licensed cannabis shops across the country must now completely overhaul their business operations. It is estimated that 12,000 could face closure as their current operating licences expire by the end of 2025.

4. Public consumption is heavily penalised

This is one of the most important and least changed rules: smoking or vaping cannabis in public spaces has always been illegal in Thailand, even during decriminalisation. It is classified as a “public nuisance” under the 1992 Public Health Act. The penalties are severe—fines of up to 25,000 baht (around 700 USD) and/or up to three months in prison. This includes beaches, streets, markets and around shopping centres. Discretion is crucial, but the safest option is to consume only in private spaces.

5. Respect areas where cannabis is strictly taboo

Beyond the general ban on public use, the new regulations explicitly prohibit the sale and, by extension, the presence of cannabis in specific locations. These include temples and other places of worship, public parks, zoos, amusement parks, schools, and student accommodation. Using cannabis in these places, particularly sacred sites such as temples, is considered a serious cultural offence likely to trigger a strong response from both authorities and the community.

6. Possession and transport is a risky grey area

This is where things become especially confusing and dangerous for tourists. While the new law’s wording focuses mainly on illegal sales, official advisories aimed at travellers are far broader. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) explicitly warns tourists that they are prohibited from “using, buying, carrying, or transporting cannabis flowers in Thailand” without a valid prescription issued in Thailand.

This creates an apparent contradiction. A technical legal analysis might suggest that personal possession isn’t the primary target of the law, but the official government guidance says otherwise. In practice, a police officer on the street won’t stop to debate legal nuances. The TAT’s directive is what will most likely dictate enforcement. Therefore, the only safe assumption is that possessing cannabis flower without a valid medical prescription is illegal and exposes you to serious consequences.

7. Don’t even think about crossing borders with cannabis

This rule is absolute and non-negotiable: it is strictly illegal to bring cannabis into or out of Thailand, even if you have a prescription. Carrying cannabis seeds or parts of the plant is also prohibited under any circumstance. Thailand’s drug trafficking laws are among the harshest in the world and can include the death penalty. One of the government’s cited reasons for tightening the law was the sharp rise in cannabis seizures being smuggled out of Thailand (more than 7.96 tonnes including plants, oil, resin, and seeds since October 2024), which has led to increased scrutiny at airports. Transporting cannabis between provinces is also strongly discouraged.

8. The 0.2% THC rule still applies to edibles and extracts

Although the new law focuses on cannabis flower, earlier regulations concerning extracts, oils and edibles remain in force. Any cannabis-derived product containing more than 0.2% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) by weight is still classified as a Category 5 narcotic. A medical prescription is also required to legally possess or purchase these higher-potency products, and possession of more than 30 ml can be considered intent to distribute. Be especially cautious with edibles, which often lack clear THC labelling and can easily exceed the legal limit.

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9. Your best tools are discretion and cultural respect

The legal shift reflects a broader conservative turn in Thai public and political opinion. The government is responding to a public backlash concerned about social impact and the country’s image. Therefore, even if you have legally obtained cannabis with a prescription, showing off is a bad idea. Consumption should always be discreet, out of sight and smell of others. Respect for local culture, the law, and above all the monarchy is essential for a trouble-free visit to Thailand.

10. Stay informed right up to the last minute amid a shifting landscape

The legal situation of cannabis in Thailand is highly volatile. Many analysts believe the June 2025 regulation is only a temporary measure until a more comprehensive and permanent Cannabis Act is passed. The Health Minister has publicly stated his intention to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic again in the future, which could mean even harsher penalties for simple possession and use. It’s crucial to check the latest updates from official sources—such as your embassy or the Tourism Authority of Thailand—right before and during your trip.

Because the era of “green fever” in Thailand has ended abruptly. The iconic neon marijuana signs that had become ubiquitous in Bangkok’s tourist areas are now banned under new advertising restrictions. The country has gone from being a beacon of cannabis liberalisation in Asia to enforcing a strict medicinal-use-only regime. For travellers, this means the risk of serious legal trouble is now extremely high if the new rules aren’t followed to the letter.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cannabis Use in Thailand for Tourists

Is it safe to smoke marijuana in Thailand?

No. Since June 2025, cannabis use is strictly limited to medical purposes. Smoking marijuana without a valid prescription may result in serious legal consequences, even if done in private. Recreational use is prohibited.

Can I be arrested for smoking marijuana in Thailand?

Yes. Smoking cannabis without a valid prescription, especially in public, can result in fines up to 25,000 baht and up to three months in jail. Authorities are enforcing the new regulations strictly.

Where can I buy legal marijuana in Thailand?

Only licensed dispensaries can sell cannabis, and only with a valid medical prescription. Dispensaries must verify prescriptions, record sales, and obtain products from government-certified cultivation sources.

Can I smoke marijuana on the beach in Thailand?

No. Smoking cannabis on beaches or in any public space is strictly forbidden and considered a “public nuisance,” punishable with fines and possible imprisonment. Use is only allowed in private spaces.

Does Thailand allow cannabis for tourists?

Not for recreational use. Tourists may use cannabis only with a valid medical prescription and for approved health conditions. Foreign prescriptions may be accepted if aligned with recognised conditions.

How much does legal marijuana cost in Thailand?

Prices vary, but legal cannabis typically costs between 300 and 800 baht per gram at licensed dispensaries. Without a valid prescription, you cannot purchase cannabis legally.

What should I avoid if I want to use cannabis in Thailand?

Avoid public consumption, carrying cannabis without a prescription, buying from street dealers, or transporting it between provinces. Never cross borders with cannabis products. Always stay informed of the latest laws.