Chiang Mai Health Authorities crack down on 823 previously legal dispensaries, with over 300 of them in the city district alone.
In the wake of new Ministry of Public Health regulations that reclassify cannabis flowers as a controlled herbal substance for medical use only, the Chiang Mai Provincial Public Health Office has ordered a strict crackdown on cannabis dispensaries across the province. The new rules require that cultivation, research, export, sale, and processing of cannabis must be licensed and follow strict conditions. This latest announcement effectively marks the end of Thailand’s cannabis liberalisation policy.
On Wednesday, Dr. Waranyu Jamnongprasartporn, Chiang Mai’s Provincial Public Health Doctor, addressed the press, revealing that there are 823 licensed cannabis businesses across 22 districts in Chiang Mai, with over 300 located in Mueang Chiang Mai District alone. The remaining licenses include 53 for export and 6 for research.
Although the new law does not revoke existing licenses, it imposes new restrictions on the sale of cannabis buds, now limited strictly to individuals with a valid prescription from a physician or a recognised health professional. Following the announcement, Chiang Mai’s health department dispatched district-level officers to educate and inform business owners of the updated legal conditions.
Random inspections will be conducted. Dr. Waranyu acknowledged that previously vague laws may have led to recreational use slipping through regulatory cracks. However, going forward, violations will result in license suspension or revocation, along with legal action as per the new regulations. Authorities are also calling on the public to report violations.
Cannabis business operators are reportedly confused and deeply concerned about the abrupt shift in policy. Many are calling for a review or compromise to mitigate the impact on those who have complied with licensing laws. Several entrepreneurs have invested heavily in rental spaces, hired staff, and stocked large inventories, only to now face severe uncertainty.
To date, most have ignored this latest announcement until they say they have greater clarification.
