The government has launched a comprehensive crackdown on illegal cannabis shops in Phuket, uncovering more than 533 outlets that failed to renew their licenses and ordering the suspension of 12 others, while emphasizing strict enforcement of the law.
On 19 July 2026 GMT+7, Ms. Ploytale Laksameesangchan, Deputy Spokesperson for the Office of the Prime Minister, announced that under the government's policy declaring “cannabis flowers” as a controlled herb, businesses selling or processing cannabis for commercial purposes must obtain licenses and strictly comply with the law. Recently, Phuket province coordinated among administrative authorities, police, and public health officials to rigorously inspect cannabis shops throughout the province to prevent misuse.
Through intensive inspections, authorities found that 533 cannabis shops failed to renew their licenses, and 12 were ordered to suspend their operations. Officials will expedite investigations and take serious legal action against any operators found to be illegally open or violating regulations. The government has instructed all agencies to strictly enforce the law against unlicensed businesses, with ongoing inspections focused on key tourist areas to regulate society, enhance the tourism image, and ensure safety and confidence for tourists and local residents alike.