Thailand

Overview

Thailand starred in one of the most confusing episodes in cannabis policy history: in 2022, it surprised the world by removing cannabis from the controlled substances list — in practice, making cultivation and commerce broadly free. Shops opened across Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. It seemed like the country had made a historic leap.

Two years later, the government reversed course. In 2024, Thailand passed new legislation banning recreational use and reimplementing penalties. Shops still exist, but the legality of what they sell and who can consume is murky.

For tourists, the message in 2026 is: don't rely on what you read about 2022. The situation has changed.

Practical summary: Thailand is one of the highest legal-risk countries for tourists seeking recreational cannabis. A history of severe drug penalties, combined with unstable legislation and unpredictable enforcement, creates a high-risk environment. What seemed like a revolution in 2022 became a legal trap in 2024.

The Confusing Timeline

The regulatory instability is the greatest danger: the law changed twice in 2 years, and enforcement officers don't have uniform criteria.

Legal Status in 2026

Why Tourists Should Be Extra Careful

Thailand has a history that makes any drug-related misstep particularly risky:

1. Tradition of harsh sentences: Before 2022, cannabis was treated like heroin. That institutional culture doesn't disappear with one law change
2. Selective enforcement: Foreign tourists may be approached differently than locals
3. Law instability: What was legal yesterday may be illegal today
4. Regional context: Thailand is surrounded by countries with the death penalty for drug trafficking (Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia)
5. Thai prisons: International reputation for very poor conditions

⚠️ Clear recommendation: In 2026, Thailand is not a safe destination for recreational cannabis tourism. The country's attractions (beaches, culture, food, temples) are immense — enjoy those, don't risk cannabis.

What You Can Legally Do

CBD: Products with less than 0.2% THC are legal and available. Bangkok has various shops selling CBD products — tinctures, cosmetics, edibles. A way to explore the ecosystem without legal risk.

Medical cannabis: With a Thai prescription, for specific medicinal purposes. Inaccessible to tourists in practice.

Cannabis cuisine: During the decriminalization period (2022–2024), restaurants began incorporating cannabis as an ingredient. Some maintain this with low-THC products — ask about THC content before consuming.

Comparison with the Past

What many tourists don't understand: historical Thailand was one of Asia's strictest countries for drugs. In 2003, the government conducted a "war on drugs" that resulted in thousands of extrajudicial deaths. The 2022 leap was real, but the 2024 reversal shows the legal framework is still being built. Don't rely on 2022 reports as current reference.

Tips for Tourists

Before traveling:

• Research the current legal situation — the law changed twice in 2 years
• Check your country's embassy in Bangkok or foreign affairs ministry for updated guidance

In-country:

• Avoid any recreational use in public spaces — zero police tolerance
• Don't buy from street vendors or in tourist areas (Khaosan Road, Patong)
• If you want CBD, use established shops with clearly labeled products

If approached by police:

• Don't confront — the Thai judicial system has low transparency
• Contact your embassy immediately

FAQ

Is cannabis legal in Thailand for tourists in 2026? Not for recreational use. The 2022 decriminalization was partially reversed in 2024. Stick only to legal CBD.

Can I enter cannabis shops in Bangkok? Shops exist but can legally only sell medicinal/CBD products. Recreational use has been prohibited since 2024.

What's the penalty for recreational cannabis possession? After 2024, it can result in fines or imprisonment. Thailand's historical drug penalties are severe — not a risk worth taking.

Does Thailand still have cannabis shops? Yes, many remain open (opened after 2022), but in a regulatory gray zone. They legally sell CBD/medicinal products only.

How does Thailand compare to other Asian destinations? Thailand is among the most progressive in Asia for cannabis policy — which still means very cautious. Japan, South Korea, and Singapore have severe criminal penalties. Cambodia and Indonesia have life imprisonment or death for trafficking. In Asia, cannabis tourism carries significant risk everywhere.