This report first published by Voco News on 6 January 2026.
Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health confirmed on 5 January 2026 that more than 7,000 cannabis stores nationwide will close in 2026, mainly due to a significant drop in license renewal applications following the implementation of a new cannabis management law.
The new Thai law stipulates that a doctor’s prescription is required to obtain cannabis.
According to Thai media outlet Thaiger, Thailand’s newly approved cannabis management law replaces the outdated system enacted in 2016, comprehensively regulating the research, export, sale, and processing of controlled herbs.
Under the new regulations, cannabis vendors can only sell cannabis in legally designated locations, including medical institutions, pharmacies, herbal medicine stores, and traditional treatment centers. They must obtain a prescription from a doctor before the cannabis can be dispensed by qualified personnel.
Thai Public Health Minister Pattana Promphat stated that Thailand has sufficient medical professionals to support the operation of the new licensing system.
Cannabis shops currently holding valid licenses can continue operating until their licenses expire; however, all new applications and renewals will be subject to the new regulations.
Officials acknowledge that businesses will inevitably need to adjust their operating models, but emphasize that patients using cannabis for medical purposes will not be affected.
According to official statistics, as of December 28, 2025, there were 18,433 cannabis businesses nationwide. Of these, 8,636 had expired licenses, but only 1,339 (approximately 15.5%) applied for renewal, while the remaining 7,297 chose to exit the market. Currently, 11,136 cannabis stores remain in operation nationwide.
The Ministry of Public Health further pointed out that it is estimated that 4,587 cannabis stores will have their licenses expire in 2026 and 5,210 in 2027, and the industry structure may continue to change in the coming years.
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