Phuket —
Authorities in Thalang conducted targeted inspections on eight cannabis retailers, uncovering legal violations in seven of them.
Officers told the Phuket Express. Among the eight stores investigated in Choeng Thale Subdistrict:
- Only one was found to be fully compliant.
- Two establishments allowed on-site cannabis smoking.
- Five failed to submit mandatory reports under forms PhorThor 27 and 28.
- Three advertised cannabis products without authorization.
- Two sold cannabis extracts without permits and are now under investigation to determine if the products qualify as controlled herbal items or illicit drugs under Thai law.
In response, officials have ordered an immediate suspension of operating licenses for all offending retailers.
The crackdown is part of Phuket’s continued proactive measures to ensure that cannabis distribution adheres strictly to Ministry of Public Health guidelines, following the plant’s partial legalization. Authorities explained their commitment to striking a balance between commercial activity and community safety, as cannabis use in Thailand remains a sensitive and evolving issue.
As the investigation progresses, local officials urge all cannabis vendors to comply with existing rules and await further regulatory updates.
