The concerns were raised by Phuket MP Chalermpong Sangdee, Secretary of the Tourism Committee, who announced the results of the Committee’s 63rd meeting at Parliament, joined by Chonburi MP and Committee Spokesperson Yodchai Phuengphon.
The meeting, which included representatives from the Ministry of Public Health, the Tourism Council of Thailand, and the Thai Association of Cannabis Shop Operators and Cannabis Advisors, was convened to monitor the impact of the cannabis policy adjustment on the tourism industry.
The Committee noted that while cannabis has potential for integration into wellness tourism – such as herbal products, traditional Thai medicine, spa services and creative activities – the lack of effective controls has resulted in negative consequences.
“The spread of cannabis odour in public spaces and key tourist attractions directly impacts tourism quality. It annoys locals, makes tourists uncomfortable, and undermines confidence in Thailand as a safe destination,” Mr Chalermpong said.
The Committee reported that such impacts were already discouraging family tourists and higher-spending visitors from travelling to Thailand, while negative international headlines about cannabis in Thailand had damaged the country’s reputation.
POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS
To mitigate these impacts, the Committee issued four key recommendations to the government and relevant agencies:
- Designate specific zones for cannabis use to prevent nuisance in public and tourist areas.
- Establish clear safety and control standards to protect quality of life and the tourist experience.
- Manage Thailand’s international image carefully so cannabis does not become a stereotype of the country.
- Enact specific laws covering public use, odour and pollution control, advertising, and clear distinctions between medical and recreational use.
Mr Chalermpong, writing earlier online, likened cannabis policy to a “double-edged sword” that brings income opportunities but risks outweighing benefits if poorly regulated. He warned that the lack of defined cannabis-use zones had already damaged Thailand’s tourism economy.
PUBLIC HEALTH, BUSINESS PERSPETIVES
The Ministry of Public Health told the Committee that due to the current political climate, amendments to cannabis legislation should be left to the next government. However, a draft resolution had already been prepared, with cannabis flowers and inflorescences subject to control under the Thai Traditional Medicine Protection and Promotion Act 1999.
The Ministry confirmed that sales inspections and arrests are handled by local police, while nominee-owned shops are investigated by the Ministry of Commerce. It acknowledged zoning concerns and pledged to work on solutions.
Meanwhile, the Cannabis Shop Operators Association reported that more than 8,000 registered shops are operating nationwide, generating over B200 billion in market value and creating 80,000 jobs.
While members accepted that smoking in public places causes nuisance, they said most tourists now prefer non-smoking forms such as oils or edibles. They urged the government to provide clear legal consumption areas and allow safer, non-smoked products with standardised packaging to meet international health tourism standards.
Without balanced regulation, the Association warned, stricter controls may simply drive cannabis use underground and worsen problems.