Thailand's Weed Onslaught - A Glimpse Into Rawai Phuket

I’ll never forget this one multiple sclerosis patient I had to take care of during my community service as part of my military draft back in 1998.

My job was essentially to roll joints for him and make sure he always had a steady supply because weed helped ease his suffering. So there I was, rolling joints and he’d light up anywhere—whether we were about to stroll into a supermarket or chill on a park bench.

Let’s just say the situations we got into were, well, pretty hilarious, to put it mildly.

Fast Forward: July 2024: Rawai, Thailand

This week, I made a new friend while vlogging on Nai Harn Beach. I also learned how digital nomads like my new friend Sian make money as freelancers in Thailand

So today I share an interview with Sian, who is a social media manager for the local weed shops and some facts about the cannabis industry in Thailand:

A stark contrast

Just a few years ago, on my first trip to Thailand, getting caught with weed meant a decade in prison, crammed into a 20-m2 cell with other felons or worse but now it is just about everywhere!

I know what you are thinking, Last week, I told you how I overcame addictions and now I am talking about weed.

Yeah, I know. To me, drugs and alcohol are all the same. They are addictive and I need to stay away from them because they are my kryptonite, which is why I quit them all.

However, when considering the effects on society, I would contend that marijuana is not nearly as detrimental as alcohol, and I find it difficult to assess the net positive or negative impact of legalization on Thailand as a whole.

I have not really formed an opinion yet, to be honest.

So let’s dive into it.

7 Fun Facts About Thai Cannabis

First in Southeast Asia: Thailand became the first country in Southeast Asia to legalize medical marijuana in 2018, pioneering cannabis reform in the region. Most of the south east Asian countries tend to have draconian laws, with death penalty in Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore

Traditional Use: Cannabis has a long history in Thailand; it was traditionally used in cooking and as a medicine in Thai folk remedies long before its legalization.

Cannabis Cafes: Since legalization, cannabis cafes have sprung up across the country, offering cannabis-infused foods and drinks and creating a unique culinary experience for tourists and locals.

It is literally easier to get weed than to get alcohol here.

Cannabis Tourism: The legalization has boosted tourism, with many visitors flocking to Thailand to experience its legal cannabis culture.

Actually, when talking to the shop owners, one of the things they all agreed on was that 90% of customers are foreigners; Thai people do smoke but wouldn’t pay those prices most of the time.

Farmer Empowerment: Small farmers are being empowered through cannabis cultivation, as the government has allowed them to grow and sell cannabis, providing a new source of income.

The market is projected to experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.96% between 2024 and 2029, leading to a market volume of US$475.20 million by 2029.

Cannabis Research and Public Health Education: Thailand is investing heavily in cannabis research, with universities and private companies exploring its medical benefits.

The government runs public health campaigns to inform citizens about safe use, aiming to prevent misuse and promote responsible benefits. Additionally, the Thai government encourages the use of cannabis in traditional medicine and wellness products.

Exploring Weed Shops in Rawai, Thailand + Interview

Conclusion:

My personal belief is that most people should stay away from weed but it does have a long history of medical use and even beneficial effects for some and it is deeply rooted in the culture.

The cannabis situation in Thailand, however, is primarily about weed tourism.

In addition, I think that the negative and even life-sabotaging effects on people are also undeniable, which is why staying away from, at least, consumption is definitely the smartest choice.

Your story matters. Join me for a 20-minute call to discuss your dreams and how I can support you. Click here to book!