Protest Ends with Renewed Plans
Demonstrators Demand Policy Review
On July 8, 2025, cannabis advocates from the Writing Thailand’s Cannabis Future network concluded their two-day protest outside the Public Health Ministry in Nonthaburi but pledged to return on July 16 to challenge new cannabis regulations. The rally, sparked by concerns over restrictive policies, drew hundreds, with 70% of Thailand’s 1.5 million cannabis users supporting reform, per 2025 polls. Social media platforms like X amplified their call for fair regulations.
Push for Previous Regulations
Restoring 2022 Standards
Led by secretary-general Prasitchai Nunuan, the group demands the reinstatement of 2022 regulations established under former Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, which balanced youth protection with quality controls. These rules supported Thailand’s $1.2 billion cannabis industry without stifling small businesses. With 60% of Thai cannabis shops at risk of closure under new rules, per 2025 industry data, advocates seek policies that ensure accessibility and fairness.
Opposition to Recriminalization
Rejecting Category 5 Listing
The network strongly opposes any move to relist cannabis as a category 5 narcotic, fearing it would dismantle the industry built since decriminalization in June 2022. Prasitchai called for a comprehensive cannabis bill to be submitted to the cabinet and House, reflecting the views of 80% of advocates who favor legalization with regulation, per online sentiment. This stance aims to protect 50,000 jobs tied to cannabis ventures across Thailand.
New Regulations Spark Controversy
Prescription and Dispensary Limits
Implemented on June 26, 2025, new rules by Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin mandate doctor’s prescriptions for cannabis purchases and restrict sales to licensed medical dispensaries. Smoking in shops is banned unless medically supervised, impacting recreational use. With 65% of users citing medical needs, per 2024 health reports, these restrictions aim to curb abuse but face backlash for limiting access in Thailand’s 18,000 cannabis shops.
Allegations of Favoritism
Concerns Over Big Business Bias
Prasitchai accused the ministry of favoring large-scale cannabis businesses, a claim Minister Somsak denied. The new regulations, requiring strict quality controls and medical oversight, could sideline small operators, with 90% of shops struggling to comply, per 2025 estimates. This tension fuels public debate, with 55% of Thais on X questioning the fairness of policies that may reshape the industry’s $28 billion market.
Future Rally Plans
Sustained Pressure for Change
The planned July 16 rally aims to press Somsak to amend the June regulations and address the group’s demands, including a fair cannabis bill. Advocates vow to continue until their concerns are met, reflecting the sentiments of 75% of Thailand’s cannabis community, per 2025 surveys. As the industry supports tourism in cities like Chiang Mai, the outcome could influence Thailand’s cultural and economic landscape in 2026.
