16-3-2024 (BANGKOK) As the pungent aroma of cannabis hangs in the air, Thodsapol Hongtong savours a leisurely smoke with his companions at the Green Party, a gathering spot where marijuana enthusiasts convene in Bangkok to unwind and revel in each other’s company. However, this cherished pastime may soon be extinguished.
The 31-year-old influencer, who owns and operates his own cannabis shop, has been an ardent advocate for recreational marijuana, frequently espousing its potential benefits for the nation’s economy on his digital platforms.
The burgeoning cannabis sector is projected to be worth a staggering US$1.2 billion by next year, according to estimates from the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce.
“Where else in the world can we indulge in a spliff while basking on the beach?” Mr Thodsapol mused to Reuters reporters, exhaling a plume of smoke from his bong.
Nonetheless, the Thai government is poised to clamp down on cannabis culture, with plans to implement a ban on its recreational use by the end of the year. Medical applications, however, will remain permissible.
In an interview with Reuters last month, Thai Health Minister Cholnan Srikaew characterised recreational marijuana as a “misuse” of cannabis, asserting that it has a detrimental impact on Thai youth and could potentially lead to further drug abuse.
Recreational cannabis flourished in Thailand after the country became the first in Asia to fully decriminalise the substance in 2022, ushering in a new era of public weed appreciation culture.
Neon signs adorned with cannabis leaf symbols in multiple languages have become ubiquitous sights on numerous street corners across Thai towns and cities, marking the tens of thousands of shops, spas, bars, and gaming lounges where a diverse array of cannabis strains are readily available.
Many streetside vendors in tourist hotspots peddle smoking paraphernalia, while cannabis-related festivals have grown increasingly commonplace, such as last year’s joint-rolling competition held on the resort island of Phuket, which drew in weed aficionados from around the globe.
The Thai government’s draft legislation prohibiting recreational cannabis use is slated for cabinet approval later this month, potentially signalling the end of an era for Thailand’s burgeoning cannabis culture.
