BANGKOK — In a sweeping effort to regulate the country’s cannabis industry, Thai authorities have closed more than 1,000 shops and confiscated nearly a tonne of cannabis flowers in a two-month nationwide crackdown. The operation, led by the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, inspected over 5,200 businesses out of nearly 19,000 registered cannabis-related establishments between June 16 and August 13, 2025.

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The enforcement campaign resulted in the suspension of 724 licenses, revocation of 129 permits, and legal action against 180 unlicensed operators. A total of 1,079 shops were permanently shut down, while 116 cases of illegal cannabis product seizures were recorded. Authorities also arrested 33 individuals attempting to smuggle cannabis out of Thailand through Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports, with nearly 981 kilograms of cannabis confiscated in total.

The crackdown follows mounting public complaints since cannabis was decriminalized in 2022, with 176 grievances filed over issues such as unlicensed sales, underage access, public smoking, and misleading advertisements. Unlicensed sales accounted for the majority of complaints, with 68 reported cases.

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Dr. Thewan Thaneerat, Deputy Director-General of the department, emphasized the need for strict oversight to ensure cannabis is used responsibly for health and social benefits, rather than recreational misuse. “Our priority is protecting youth and maintaining a well-regulated industry,” he stated.

D Nantasak Chotichanadechawong, Director of the Office for Protection and Promotion of Thai Traditional and Folk Medicine Wisdom, confirmed that inspections are conducted weekly, with the latest operation on August 13 targeting shops in Bangkok and Nonthaburi. Out of 17 businesses checked, two were found operating illegally, while one had its license suspended for violations.

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Authorities are urging the public to report suspicious cannabis-related activities via phone (0-2591-7007) or through the department’s website (www.dtam.moph.go.th). The government stresses that cooperation between communities, businesses, and regulators is essential to ensuring cannabis remains a safe and beneficial part of Thai society.

-Thailand News (TN)