Thailand Takes Steps Towards Decriminalizing Cannabis And Ending Jail Terms For Possession

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cannabis thailand 2022

Currently permitted for medicinal, foods and cosmetics, Thailand is now looking to decriminalize Cannabis on a larger scale.

In a major step which will make it the first Southeast Asian country to do so, Thailand’s Food And Drug Administration has suggested to the narcotics control board that marijuana be removed from a list of banned substances.

Once cleared by the board, the proposal will need to be approved by Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul before it becomes effective.

Cannabis possession is currently penalized by up to 15 years in prison in Thailand, but the decision to decriminalize the substance will be the start of change. Back in 2018, Thailand became the first nation in Southeast Asia to approve medicinal cannabis in a move a key lawmaker called a “New Year’s gift” to the Thai people.

According to FDA deputy secretary-general Withid Sariddeechaikool said, “If we’re able to decriminalize marijuana, we will be able to benefit from all of the plant and not just parts of it.The flower buds and seeds could be used economically and in compliance with the law.”

Chaiwat Sowcharoensuk, an analyst at Krungsri Research went on to tell Bloomberg, “While the law change will allow all parts of cannabis to be bought, sold and used, recreational use will likely remain controlled as marijuana extracts with higher tetrahydrocannabinol levels that get people high will still be regulated. Producers of soaps, beauty products and cosmetics from marijuana will likely be the ones to benefit the most from the decriminalization.”

H/T – Mixmag

Melody Siganporia
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