Breaking Development

The Thai Cabinet has approved a crucial draft ministerial regulation governing the licensing of Category 5 narcotics, specifically for cannabis and hemp extracts. This regulation, proposed by the Ministry of Public Health, will serve as a subordinate law under the Narcotics Act B.E. 2564 (2021), with a critical stipulation that cannabis and hemp extracts containing THC exceeding 0.2% remain classified as narcotics.

Licensing Framework

The new regulation establishes four specific categories for licensing as follows:

1. Medical applications
2. Commercial and industrial purposes
3. Medical and scientific research
4. Law enforcement and narcotics control

Eligibility Criteria

The framework sets clear eligibility requirements for license applicants as follows:

• Individual applicants must be Thai nationals aged 20 or above
• Corporate entities must be registered under Thai law with a minimum of 51% Thai ownership
• Community enterprises
• Government agencies
• Thai Red Cross Society
• Private higher education institutions offering medical or pharmaceutical programs

Industry Impact

The regulation has already shown a significant impact on Thailand’s cannabis-related industries, with over 2,900 products receiving approval as follows:

• Cosmetics sector leads with 2,121 approved products
• Food products account for 596 approvals
• Herbal products comprise 189 approvals
• International exports have commenced, with successful shipments to South Korea and African nations

Regulatory Controls

To maintain safety and quality standards, the framework implements several key controls as follows:

• Mandatory electronic license applications
• Three-year license validity period
• Strict storage requirements for extracts
• Regular THC content testing
• Prescribed fee structure

Future Outlook

This regulatory framework positions Thailand as a pioneer in progressive cannabis policy while maintaining necessary safeguards. Including public and private stakeholders in the licensing system, coupled with clear guidelines for various applications, creates a balanced approach that promotes economic opportunity and public safety.

The success of this framework will likely depend on continued collaboration between government agencies, private sector participants, and research institutions, as well as ongoing monitoring and adjustment of regulations to meet evolving industry needs while ensuring public health protection.

Key Takeaways

• Cabinet approves new ministerial regulation for cannabis and hemp extract licensing
• Framework expands access beyond government agencies to the private sector and individuals
• THC content exceeding 0.2% remains classified as a controlled substance
• Four specific categories of permitted use established for licensing purposes
• A robust licensing system implements strict eligibility criteria for both individuals and organizations