Phuket—
Authorities in Phuket have launched a sweeping enforcement operation against cannabis retailers in Patong’s Bangla Road area, suspending or revoking licenses in a bid to tighten control and safeguard visitors.
The operation brought together district officials, provincial public health officers, and volunteer defense corps members to inspect licensed cannabis shops.
Authorities told the Phuket Express. Out of 11 establishments checked:
- 8 shops had their licenses suspended
- 2 shops had their licenses revoked
- 3 shops were cited for selling food without proper labeling under the Food Act of 1979
- 1 shop was found with hashish, a cannabis extract classified as a Category 5 narcotic under Thai law due to its THC content exceeding 0.2 percent
Authorities stated that current cannabis policy strictly limits use to medical purposes. Pending legislation seeks to designate cannabis flowers as a controlled herb, banning online sales, promotional giveaways, and recreational use. Smoking in public spaces also remains prohibited.
