BANGKOK – Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health has confirmed the closure of more than 7,000 cannabis shops following a sharp decline in license renewals under a newly implemented regulatory framework. As of January 5, 2025, Cabinet-approved regulations have introduced stricter controls over the cannabis industry, resulting in widespread closures across the country.

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Previously governed by rules established in 2016, the industry is now subject to comprehensive changes designed to enhance oversight of cannabis sales, exports, and processing. Public Health Minister Pattana Promphat emphasized that updated regulations are necessary to address the evolving cannabis landscape and to strengthen consumer protection. Under the new rules, sellers may only operate from legally designated facilities, and only authorized medical personnel are permitted to prescribe and dispense cannabis.

Existing cannabis shops with valid licenses are allowed to continue operating until their permits expire. However, all new applications and renewals submitted after the regulations took effect must comply with the stricter criteria.

Thailand: 7,000+ Cannabis Shops Close As Rules Tighten—Patients Assuredhttps://t.co/EDGv5OWcqg

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Ministry data reveals that while 18,433 cannabis establishments were registered as of December 2025, only 1,339 shops renewed their licenses, leading to the shuttering of over 7,000 outlets. Looking ahead, the ministry anticipates that 4,587 licenses will expire in 2026 and another 5,210 in 2027.

The updated regulations restrict eligible business premises to specific facility types, such as medical and herbal establishments, and impose stricter standards for storage and staffing. License holders must own or legally occupy the property where their business operates, and cannabis products must be stored in controlled environments that regulate temperature, humidity, and sunlight exposure.

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Additionally, all personnel involved in the sale or handling of cannabis must complete training certified by the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine to ensure compliance with safety protocols. While existing licenses remain valid until their natural expiration, all future applications will be subject to the tightened regulatory criteria.

-Thailand News (TN)