In Thailand, cannabis is called ‘Ganja’,” and hemp is called ‘Ganchong’. On June 9, 2022, Thai law raises the possibilities for commerce with cannabis and hemp, which are gaining more commercial value.

Ganja Law History in Brief

In Thailand, the first law that set forth the rules about cannabis was the Ganja Act B.E. 2477 (1934), which prohibits anyone from planting, importing, buying, selling, or possessing it. In 1979, the Narcotics Drug Act B.E. 2522 was enacted, and cannabis has been classified as a narcotic drug in category 5 since then. The latest law is the Narcotics Drug Code, B.E. 2564.

In recent years, Thai people have called for the right to use cannabis for medical purposes; some have called for recreational use.

Medical research continues. Since 2019, cannabis and hemp have slowly become legalised and used for patient treatments according to evidence-based medicine. 1 The Ministry of Public Health of Thailand (MOPH) has proven that symptoms or diseases that have been treated are effective, as follows:

  1. Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting
  2. Intractable epilepsy
  3. Spasticity, multiple sclerosis
  4. Neuropathic pain

On February 9, 2022, the MOPH announced the announcement in the government gazette RE: Specific names of narcotics in category 5 B.E. 2565 (2022), which comes into force on June 9, 2022. 2 The announcement’s effect on the status of cannabis is as follows:

Cannabis and Hemp Extracts

1. Anything containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) greater than 0.2%, whether it is planted in Thailand or overseas, is classified as a narcotic drug.

2. Containing THC of not more than 0.2%, the extract is permitted from the cannabis that is planted in Thailand and is not classified as a narcotic drug.

3. Any extract from the seeds of cannabis or hemp that is planted in Thailand is not classified as a drug.

4: All parts of cannabis and hemp plants have been removed from the list!

From June 9, 2022, people are allowed to plant ganja and ganchong in their households without permission but not to extract them without permission. However, planting them must be reported to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) through an application called “Plookganja,” which means cannabis planting in Thai.

You can Download Apps Plookganja for IOS and Android, the App requires 13 digits of a Thai ID card.

Commercial Possibility

Importation

The importation of cannabis seeds, hemp, and other parts such as inflorescences, leaves, branches, and stalks does not require an import permit under the Narcotic Drug Code. But must be permitted to import under the Plant Varieties Act B.E. 2518 and the Plant Quarantine Act B.E. 2507.

An extract imported from abroad classified as a narcotic must be licenced under the Narcotics Law.

Product

Any parts of cannabis and hemp being used to make any products require permission and operate according to the quality standards of each product, such as food, which must comply with the FDA. Medicines must comply with the Drug Act. And cosmetics must comply with the Cosmetics Act.

Recreation Use Such As Smoke

“Smoke,” or use recreationally, is questionable. Now, the Cannabis and Hemp Act, B.E., and Draught Notification of the Ministry of Public Health Re: Prescribing the smell and smoke of cannabis, hemp, or any other similar plant as a nuisance, B.E., are bringing in legislation.

Conclusion

In Thailand, starting June 9, 2022. Cannabis and hemp will become opportunities for commercial, medical, or recreational use. The law raises the commercial value of these plants, which is a good chance for business startups and expansion into Thailand. If you are in need of a business and commercial lawyer in Thailand. We Can Help.

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  1. Guidance on Cannabis for Medical Use (1/2562 Edition), Department of Medical Services, Ministry of Public Health of Thailand
  2. Announcement of Ministry of Public Health of Thailand Re: Specifying the names of the narcotic in category 5, B.E. 2565, Section 1