Educational Information Only
The content on this page is for general educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Every legal situation is unique. For matters involving investigation, arrest, litigation, or formal proceedings, consult a qualified legal professional.
Cannabis & Hemp Penalties in Thailand (2025)
Current penalties for cannabis-related offenses in Thailand including unauthorized cultivation, sales violations, public smoking, and export.
Overview
Thailand decriminalized cannabis in 2022 but is actively re-regulating through the Cannabis and Hemp Act. While possession and use are currently not criminal (for products under 0.2% THC), many related activities carry significant penalties. Exporting cannabis is still treated as drug trafficking.
Penalties Table
| Offence | Statute | Fine Range | Prison Range | Foreigner Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public cannabis smoking (where prohibited) | Public Health Act + local ordinances | THB 2,000 – 25,000 | Possible under local ordinances | Increasing enforcement in tourist areas and public spaces |
| Selling cannabis without license | Pending Cannabis & Hemp Act / FDA Regulations | THB 50,000 – 500,000 | Up to 3 years | License required from Thai FDA |
| Selling to persons under 20 | Public Health Act / Cannabis Act provisions | THB 30,000 – 300,000 | Up to 1 year | Strict liability — age verification required |
| Cannabis extract >0.2% THC (unauthorized) | Narcotics Act B.E. 2522 (1979) (if reclassified) | THB 40,000 – 400,000 | Up to 5 years | THC extracts above threshold may be treated as narcotics |
| Exporting cannabis from Thailand | Narcotics Act + Customs Act | THB 100,000 – 1,000,000 | 5 – 15 years | Treated as drug trafficking — extremely severe penalties |
| Cultivation without FDA registration | FDA Regulations / Cannabis Act provisions | THB 20,000 – 200,000 | Up to 2 years | Registration via Plook Ganja app required |
| Driving under influence of cannabis | Land Traffic Act B.E. 2522 (1979) | THB 10,000 – 20,000 | Up to 1 year | Roadside testing is increasing — can affect license and visa |
Important Notes
Cannabis law in Thailand is actively evolving — penalties may change with the Cannabis & Hemp Act
Exporting cannabis from Thailand is treated as drug trafficking regardless of quantity
Public smoking restrictions are increasingly enforced, especially in tourist areas
Products exceeding 0.2% THC may be reclassified as narcotics
DUI cannabis carries the same weight as alcohol DUI in Thai traffic law
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Penalties shown are statutory provisions and actual sentences may vary based on case circumstances and judicial discretion. Always consult a qualified Thai lawyer for specific legal advice.
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