Thailand is introducing stricter rules on cannabis use, banning its sale to anyone without a medical prescription. The decision comes after rising concerns about the drug’s easy availability, especially to children, and a noticeable increase in cannabis addiction since it was decriminalised.

In 2022, Thailand became the first country in Asia to decriminalise cannabis, which helped boost tourism and the local economy. Thousands of cannabis shops opened across the country, offering both recreational and medical products. However, the lack of strict rules led to public criticism, especially from those worried about young people getting access to the drug.

Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin signed an order on Monday banning the sale of cannabis without a prescription. The government also plans to classify cannabis buds as a “controlled herb.” The new rule will become official once it's published in the Royal Gazette, although the exact date is still unknown. Phanurat Lukboon, head of Thailand’s Narcotics Control Board, said his team is ready to begin working on the new rules. He also mentioned that a study from last year showed a sharp rise in cannabis addiction since the plant was made legal.

The ruling Pheu Thai Party had earlier promised to make cannabis illegal again. However, they faced opposition from the Bhumjaithai Party, which strongly supported legalisation. Recently, Bhumjaithai left the coalition government after a leaked phone call between the Thai Prime Minister and Cambodia’s former leader. Health Minister Somsak said he hopes to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic again in the future. This move follows reports of rising cannabis smuggling involving tourists.

A government spokesperson said the new rules are meant to stop the misuse of cannabis, especially by children. Many shops were reportedly selling it for both medical and recreational use without proper checks. Meanwhile, a group of cannabis supporters said the changes are politically motivated. They plan to protest at the Health Ministry next month, opposing the push to criminalise cannabis again.