Phuket, August 27, 2026 —
Provincial authorities in Phuket have launched a coordinated inspection of cannabis establishments in the Rawai area following public complaints of widespread violations of regulations.
The joint effort was to ensure strict compliance with laws governing cannabis businesses, particularly prohibitions against on-site smoking.
Under Ministry of Public Health rules, violations can result in suspension or revocation of operating licenses. The inspection covered 13 shops in Rawai, yielding the following results:
- 8 shops had their licenses suspended for 90 days
- 3 shops had licenses revoked (2 for allowing cannabis smoking, 1 for repeat advertising violations)
- 2 shops were found compliant with regulations
The crackdown is part of a broader national directive from Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who has tasked provincial governors and police commanders with enforcing social order, combating narcotics, and safeguarding tourist destinations. Interior Ministry Permanent Secretary Arsit Sampanrat has also focused on strict law enforcement to boost public safety and confidence in Phuket as a premier travel hub.
