Phuket –
Phuket’s provincial governor is calling on Thailand’s central government to implement stricter zoning regulations on the sale and consumption of cannabis in the province, following mounting complaints from tourists over the smell of marijuana in popular travel hotspots.
Governor Sophon Suwannarat announced the proposal during a local council meeting on June 18. He revealed that a growing number of international visitors, local residents, and tour operators have raised concerns about the widespread presence and odor of cannabis, particularly in areas frequented by families and general tourists, such as the historic Old Town of Phuket.
“We’ve received repeated reports from both local people and international travel companies promoting Phuket abroad. The smell of marijuana in key tourist zones is becoming a major issue,” Governor Sophon stated.
Under the proposed plan, cannabis sales and use would be restricted to clearly designated zones, similar to those established for nightlife and entertainment venues. This zoning system would allow local authorities to manage cannabis businesses more effectively and protect the image of Phuket as a world-class travel destination.
Currently, marijuana vendors have appeared in scattered locations throughout the city without spatial guidelines, prompting concerns about disorder and negative perceptions among visitors who disapprove of cannabis use.
The governor is also requesting that the Ministry of Public Health delegate greater authority to provincial administrations by forming local committees responsible for evaluating and licensing cannabis shops. At present, only the Ministry has the power to grant such licenses, creating bottlenecks and legal uncertainty.
“Zoning will help maintain order and ensure cannabis-related businesses operate in appropriate areas,” said Sophon. “For instance, selling or using cannabis in Old Town is not suitable, as the area caters to a diverse range of visitors.”
Tourism officials echoed the urgency of the issue, warning that if left unaddressed, cannabis-related discomfort could tarnish Phuket’s appeal and reduce tourist arrivals—particularly among groups that are sensitive to or disapprove of marijuana use.
With Phuket’s economy heavily reliant on international tourism, the governor’s proposal seeks to strike a balance between Thailand’s evolving cannabis policies and the expectations of global travelers. As the issue gains national attention, all eyes are now on the Ministry of Public Health to determine whether the zoning request will be enacted.
