Thailand have announced that marijuana cultivation and possession has been decriminalised. However, confusion has been cultivated around the matter as the government are still advising against recreational use.
Thailand are the first nation in Asia to decriminalise marijuana, with the intention to distribute for medical supply only. Thailand are seeking to increase their position in the market for medical marijuana, building upon their ideal climate for growing marijuana along with their current medical tourism industry.
The government have warned both residents and tourists that those seen smoking marijuana recreationally in public could be subjected to a 25,000 Thai baht fine, roughly equating to 578 pounds and 675 euro. With a possibility of a 3 month sentence if caught.
Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, commented on the recent change stating that. “If we have the right awareness, cannabis is like gold, something valuable, and should be promoted.”
Further noting that, “We will have additional Ministry of Health Notifications, by the Department of Health. If it causes nuisances, we can use that law.”
