Local Businesses Sound Alarm
Phuket’s thriving cannabis scene, with 1,495 weed shops dotting the island, is driving away family tourists, local businesses warned on June 19, 2025. The issue, discussed at a Phuket City Hall meeting chaired by deputy governor Adul Chuthong, has prompted calls for stricter controls. The widespread recreational use of cannabis, legalized in 2022, is tarnishing the island’s appeal as a family-friendly destination.
Public Outcry in Tourist Hotspots
Patong Faces Family Exodus
Residents and officials reported that cannabis smoke and sales of cannabis-infused foods, like brownies and jelly, are deterring families from areas like Patong. Senator Parinya Wongcherdkwan noted public complaints about the pervasive presence of cannabis in tourist zones, posing risks to children who might unknowingly consume edibles. These concerns have sparked urgent discussions to balance tourism with public safety.
Regulatory Gaps Fuel Chaos
Lack of Clear Laws Persists
Thailand’s pioneering 2022 decriminalization of cannabis, championed by Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul, unleashed a largely unregulated market. Three years later, the absence of comprehensive legislation has created a free-for-all, with Phuket hosting 752 cannabis shops in Muang district alone. The lack of clear rules has hindered efforts to manage recreational use, amplifying negative perceptions among international visitors.
Enforcement Efforts Underway
Raids Target Unlicensed Shops
Patong police, in collaboration with public health officials, have conducted raids to curb illegal cannabis sales, arresting shop operators lacking proper permits. Satjapon Thongsom, deputy chairman of the Phuket Chamber of Commerce, highlighted complaints from nearby restaurants about licensed shops’ impact on their business. These enforcement actions aim to restore order, but inconsistent regulations continue to challenge authorities.
Tourism Industry Pushes for Zoning
Controlled Cannabis Areas Proposed
The Phuket Tourist Association revealed that tour agents in several countries now associate Thailand with rampant cannabis use, deterring family travelers. To counter this, private sector leaders proposed zoning cannabis use to designated areas, reducing exposure in family-oriented spaces. This strategy seeks to preserve Phuket’s $10 billion tourism economy while addressing the 520 cannabis shops in Kathu and 223 in Thalang districts.
Proposed Medical Cannabis Restrictions
Pheu Thai’s Legislative Push
Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin announced in May 2025 that a proposed Pheu Thai law would require medical certificates for cannabis use, limiting it to therapeutic purposes. This shift, if passed, could reshape Phuket’s cannabis landscape, aligning it with medical tourism rather than recreational appeal. However, ongoing political turmoil has stalled progress, leaving businesses and officials in limbo as they await clearer regulations.
Balancing Tourism and Reputation
Phuket’s Future at Stake
Phuket’s tourism sector, a cornerstone of Thailand’s economy, faces a critical juncture as cannabis-related complaints threaten its global image. By implementing zoning and stricter oversight, authorities aim to safeguard the island’s allure for diverse travelers. Collaborative efforts between businesses, police, and lawmakers will be essential to restore confidence, ensuring Phuket remains a premier destination amid the evolving cannabis debate.
