Thailand lifts restrictions on cannabis & hemp; promotes proper usage

Thailand’s cannabis industry has recently made it to the news headlines. According to the Ministry of Public Health of Thailand, hemp and cannabis are now removed from the Category 5 narcotic drugs, with effect from 9 June 2022.

Only hemp and cannabis plants which contain less than 0.2% TCH are permitted for possession, selling and planting, but the ministry must be informed through the PlookGanja app.

The Government has a policy of liberalizing cannabis and hemp usage, keeping the following objectives in mind:

• For medical purposes
• For economic benefits
• For people to have a choice in taking care of their health

Reportedly, the cannabis and hemp extraction with the THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) amount surpassing 0.2% of the overall weight stays on the list of the controlled narcotics category 5.

The Government also has a policy of liberalizing cannabis and hemp usage for medical purposes so that it can be grown, traded, and possessed. It is also looking forward to developing cannabis and hemp as the new cash crops of Thailand, which will help generate income for entrepreneurs and farmers.

The Ministry of Public Health has as well included medicinal cannabis and hemp in its service plan and has encouraged the proper usage of these medicinal plants.

It has offered guidance and education to the community enterprises and the business sector on how to nurture cannabis and hemp legally and to a recognized standard for both traditional and modern medicines.

The Prime Minister of Thailand has mentioned that the Government would be forming a committee, including representatives from appropriate academics, agencies, and the people’s sector, to ensure that cannabis and hemp could be used properly and legally.

As per official sources, the House of Representatives passed Cannabis and Hemp Bill in its first reading on 8 June 2022, which empowers individuals to raise cannabis or hemp for household consumption and use two plants for medical and health purposes.

However, the individuals need to make sure that they register via the FDA's (Food and Drug Administration’s) website and application. 

Source Credit - https://www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-unlocks-and-promotes-proper-use-of-cannabis-and-hemp-401196