Cannabis Shop Inspections Ramp Up In Thailand
A series of cannabis store inspections reportedly occurred in Bangkok, Thailand, today as part of the government’s increased industry enforcement efforts. The inspections come amidst calls by cannabis opponents to repeal Thailand’s modernized cannabis policies and regulations.
“The Ministry of Public Health, in cooperation with the Narcotics Suppression Bureau, the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), and related agencies, deployed over 100 officers in a coordinated sweep of 20 cannabis shops across Bangkok on Sunday (June 22).” reported The Nation in its original coverage.
“Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin said the operation follows a direct order from the Prime Minister, mandating a nationwide crackdown on unauthorised psychoactive drugs such as Rohypnol and Alprazolam, which are classified as controlled substances under medical regulations, along with precursor substances like kratom and cannabis.” the outlet also reported.
Reported violations from the inspections included ‘failure to properly record transactions and provide product details,’ as well as stores allegedly allowing on-site consumption. The reported violations resulted in some stores being ordered to close for between 10 and 14 days.
The Assistant to Thailand’s Public Health Minister, the Director-General of the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, and the nation’s Deputy Secretary-General of the Food and Drug Administration all participated in the inspections.
Separately, officials in Phuket recently met with members of the local business community to discuss their complaints about cannabis shops in the area. Phuket is home to an estimated 1,500 specialty cannabis stores.
“The Phuket Tourist Association said tour agents in many countries have told its members that Thailand is now associated with high use of cannabis, which is not desired by family travellers.” reported Bangkok Post in its local coverage. “The private sector proposed that authorities improve control of the plant by limiting the number of spots for using cannabis.”
“In May, Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin said cannabis users in Thailand would be required to have medical certificates, ensuring its use for medical purposes only, if the ruling Pheu Thai Party’s version of the law is passed.” the outlet reported.