Cannabis Medicine Law Draft Set For July 24 Approval

The Department of Thai Traditional Medicine is expediting its review of a draft cannabis law for medical use after gathering public input across two consultation rounds from 1,600 participants, with plans to submit it to the Health Minister for approval by July 24. Dr. Tewan Thaneerat, deputy director-general of the Department of Thai Traditional Medicine and Alternative Medicine under the Ministry of Public Health, outlined the legislation's progress on July 4, 2025. The department has been collecting public feedback on the Cannabis and Cannabis Derivatives Bill through the central legal system website of the Office of the Council of State. The first consultation period ran from January 9-23, 2024, followed by a second round from September 16-30, 2024. According to a March 10, 2025 cabinet resolution, the second consultation was divided into two 30-day phases: the first from April 22 to May 21, 2025 focused on the bill's principles and rationale, and the second from June 2 to July 1, 2025 on the draft legislation itself. Over 1,600 stakeholders and citizens submitted both supportive and opposing views. Dr. Tewan emphasized that the department will not overlook any feedback, dedicating at least 15 days to filter, refine, and amend the bill's content based on all recommendations received. The department will then present the finalized draft to the Health Minister for approval by July 24, 2025, before forwarding it to the cabinet for policy endorsement, with emphasis on public welfare and maintaining social, health, and economic stability.