Thai Government Slams Brakes on Cannabis, Declares New Drug War
In a stunning turnaround, Thailand’s government has abruptly declared its cannabis reforms finished—and is launching a fierce four-month offensive against the country’s drug crisis.
Deputy Prime Minister Sophon Saram, a senior figure in the Bhumjaithai Party, blasted the “fragmented drug policies” of previous governments during a tense parliamentary session. He now promises a united, all-out assault on narcotics.
Bhumjaithai Party’s Dramatic U-Turn
Just a few years ago, Bhumjaithai proudly touted cannabis legalisation as its flagship achievement. Now, the party is backtracking.
“We criticise the lack of proper control laws for cannabis and admit our earlier support led to problems,” Sophon says bluntly. He insists the reform era is over.
Instead, the government is shifting focus entirely to drug suppression—a cause Sophon now calls Thailand’s “number one national priority.” He urges Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to steer the country towards “clear and practical solutions.”
Billions Wasted on Failed Drug Policies?
Sophon doesn’t mince words. “The fragmented approach of past administrations has wasted over 6 billion Baht,” he declares. He’s calling for a united front: police, military, civil servants, and the health ministry must join forces.
His inspiration? The “Buriram Model”—a community-led scheme credited with helping 1,600 people break free from drugs. Now, the government wants to roll out this model nationwide.
Four Months to Deliver Results
The clock is ticking. The government has set itself a bold deadline: four months to show real progress.
Sophon urges the public to keep a close eye on their efforts. “The party is ready to deliver substantial change within this timeframe,” he vows.
Plans include overhauling drug laws and tightening enforcement. The strategy? A tough mix of law enforcement and public involvement to tackle the drug problem at its roots.
What’s Next for Thailand?
This announcement signals a seismic shift in Thailand’s drug policy. The government, once focused on cannabis’s economic promise, is now taking a much harder line.
The next four months will be a crucial test. Can ministers achieve their ambitious targets? The pressure is intense—from both the public and political rivals.
The Cannabis Legacy: What Happens Now?
With cannabis reform officially declared over, thousands of cannabis shops remain open across Thailand. Their future? Uncertain.
For now, the government seems intent on halting further liberalisation, rather than shutting down existing businesses. But with the new crackdown looming, shop owners and customers alike are left anxiously waiting for answers.
