The Cabinet has approved the draft Cannabis Control Act. Minister Patthana confirmed cannabis is to be used for medical purposes only and announced plans to increase penalties. Existing cannabis shops, once their licenses expire, must convert into medical facilities with resident doctors who can prescribe medication only.
On 22 Sep 2026 GMT+7 at the Government House, Mr. Patthana Prompattana, Minister of Public Health, revealed that the Cabinet approved the draft Cannabis Control Act. The next step is to submit it to the House of Representatives for consideration. The bill controls everything from cultivation plots, which must be registered by size—small, medium, or large—to allow tracking of locations, ensuring quality control and clear regulations on extracts and flower use. It also introduces clearer and harsher penalties than the current law.
Mr. Patthana reiterated that cannabis is currently for medical use only. Existing roadside shops operate under three-year licenses, which will expire between 2026 and 2028. Shops that are not medical facilities must convert to such to renew their licenses, requiring resident doctors per the new regulations. Dispensing must be by prescription signed by a doctor. Currently, an app links and verifies registered cannabis shops and cultivation sites. According to his morning check, over 10,000 locations are recorded, covering about 95% of all, allowing verification of legal shops. Shops not in the system can be presumed illegal.
Going forward, teams will intensify inspections of currently operating shops to protect the public, especially in tourist cities and major urban areas. The Department of Thai Traditional Medicine will provide detailed statements on controlling and inspecting cannabis retailers. Officials are confident there are sufficient personnel to conduct thorough inspections.