webfact

Thailand’s Medical Cannabis Rules Tighten with Launch of Prescription Form A pedestrian walks by the sign of a Cannabis shop after Thailand started banning the sale of cannabis to those without a prescription in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, June 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) THAILAND - In a groundbreaking move, the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine (DTAM) has launched an official prescription form for medical cannabis, set to revolutionise patient care across the country. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365329-thailand’s-medical-cannabis-rules-tighten-with-launch-of-prescription-form/

A pedestrian walks by the sign of a Cannabis shop after Thailand started banning the sale of cannabis to those without a prescription in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, June 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) THAILAND - In a groundbreaking move, the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine (DTAM) has launched an official prescription form for medical cannabis, set to revolutionise patient care across the country. Announced on June 30, this development follows the Ministry of Public Health’s regulations on controlled herbs, establishing strict guidelines for cannabis usage. The newly introduced form, P.T.33, empowers authorised professionals—ranging from doctors to traditional healers—to prescribe cannabis to patients suffering from 15 specific medical conditions. “This prescription form is designed to standardise the process for all dispensers,” stated Dr Somruk Chungsaman, Director General of the Department. “It ensures that cannabis is used safely and effectively.” Doctors are now required to meticulously document patient information, including full name, age, nationality, and ID or passport number. They must also detail diagnosed symptoms, the prescribed dosage, usage duration, and total quantity. Each prescription is valid for up to 30 days and must align with official guidelines and supporting documents. Dispensers are mandated to retain prescriptions for a year for compliance checks. This announcement comes after a period of delays and extensive discussions. Initially put on hold by Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin, the draft form underwent revisions after consulting the medical community. Now, with the form published in the Royal Gazette, its implementation is imminent. A staff prepares flower bud of marijuana for a customer at a cannabis shop after Thailand started banning the sale of cannabis to those without a prescription in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, June 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Dr Tewan Thanirat, Deputy Director General, assured the public, “We’ve submitted the announcement to the Royal Gazette website. The regulations will take effect the day after publication.” Despite recent legal reforms, cannabis flower remains a controlled substance in Thailand. The new prescription form aims to prevent misuse and create a clear operational framework for medical professionals. Prescriptions can be issued by those qualified in various medical disciplines, including Thai traditional medicine, Chinese medicine, and conventional medicine, as reported by Matichon. This landmark regulation is expected to enhance access for patients with chronic conditions, highlighting Thailand’s dynamic cannabis policy landscape. The implementation of P.T.33 represents a significant step forward in healthcare, offering patients a controlled avenue to benefit from cannabis while maintaining regulatory oversight. As the changes unfold, attention remains on how this new regulation will reshape medical practices and patient experiences across Thailand. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-01

Bangkok ATM customer unfazed as storm brings tree down on booth Picture courtesy of Facebook Fo UR BANGKOK – A strong storm swept across Bangkok on Sunday, bringing down a large banyan tree that knocked three bank ATMs off their bases, but a woman customer remained unfazed, calmly completing her transaction at one of the crazily tilted booths. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365316-bangkok-atm-customer-unfazed-as-storm-brings-tree-down-on-booth/

Picture courtesy of Facebook Fo UR BANGKOK – A strong storm swept across Bangkok on Sunday, bringing down a large banyan tree that knocked three bank ATMs off their bases, but a woman customer remained unfazed, calmly completing her transaction at one of the crazily tilted booths. A photo showing the woman intent on her transaction amid the storm damage went viral on social media. She left uninjured. The downed tree was in front of the Din Daeng 2 Housing Authority office. The National Housing Authority on Monday cut power to the affected ATMs, and work crews began removing the fallen tree. The three banks whose ATMs were damaged said the machines would be temporarily relocated and returned when it was deemed safe. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-07-01

Tourism, Exports Falter as Bangkok Bank Sounds Alarm on Economic Outlook Picture courtesy of Bangkok Bank Ongoing political turbulence in Thailand is putting a dampener on fresh investment, warns Bangkok Bank (BBL), potentially exacerbating the effects of US tariffs on exports. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365311-tourism-exports-falter-as-bangkok-bank-sounds-alarm-on-economic-outlook/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Bank Ongoing political turbulence in Thailand is putting a dampener on fresh investment, warns Bangkok Bank (BBL), potentially exacerbating the effects of US tariffs on exports. Kobsak Pootrakool, a senior executive at BBL, explained that the uncertainty plaguing Thailand’s political scene could deter investment in both public and private sectors. Businesses are hesitant to make investment plans until there's clarity on US-Thai trade relations and potential tariff impacts. "Thai political developments are notoriously unpredictable," Mr Kobsak stated. "The bank is keeping a close watch on these issues and assessing their implications for the economy. Furthermore, external challenges, particularly US trade policies, are threatening Thai economic growth, especially with ongoing structural problems." BBL has responded by reducing its 2025 Thai GDP growth forecast from 3% to 2%, assuming the US will impose tariffs of 10-15% on Thai exports. If risks worsen, growth could plummet to 1.5%, largely due to tariff impacts. While Thai exports were strong earlier this year, bolstered by preemptive buying before tariff hikes, the outlook remains uncertain. Export challenges may increase in the year's second half as US importers possibly reduce orders, and trade tensions continue, writes the Bangkok Post. Mr Kobsak warned that if Chinese goods are redirected in trade deals, Thai products could face heightened competition in new markets. The tourism sector also struggles, facing declining arrivals from China due to security fears and the recent Bangkok earthquake. International tourist arrivals dipped by 2-3% in the first five months of 2025, with expectations of 35.5 million visitors this year. This drop is linked to safety concerns and the quake. Recovery typically takes four to five months. However, should the government unveil initiatives to attract tourists, the sector could bounce back by year’s end, Mr Kobsak added. In monetary matters, Mr Kobsak anticipates two policy rate cuts from the Bank of Thailand this year, reducing it from 1.75% to 1.25% to support the economy amidst uncertainties. Furthermore, the baht is expected to strengthen against the US dollar by year-end due to a weakening US currency. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-07-01

Cannabis Chaos: 12,000 Thai Shops Face Closure Under New Rules A staff member arranges bongs at a cannabis shop after Thailand started banning the sale of cannabis to those without a prescription in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, June 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Thailand's cannabis industry is facing a seismic shift as new regulations threaten to shut down around 12,000 cannabis flower shops. The country's Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine (DTAM) has unveiled stringent rules requiring medical professionals to oversee cannabis sales, with these changes set to take effect by the year's end. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365298-cannabis-chaos-12000-thai-shops-face-closure-under-new-rules/

A staff member arranges bongs at a cannabis shop after Thailand started banning the sale of cannabis to those without a prescription in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, June 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Thailand's cannabis industry is facing a seismic shift as new regulations threaten to shut down around 12,000 cannabis flower shops. The country's Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine (DTAM) has unveiled stringent rules requiring medical professionals to oversee cannabis sales, with these changes set to take effect by the year's end. Dr Somruek Chungsaman, Director-General of the DTAM, announced these sweeping reforms on 30 June 2025. The upcoming departmental notification will introduce a stricter prescription form, demanding the presence of specific medical professionals from fields like General Medicine, Thai Traditional Medicine, Dentistry, and others. The professionals must register their licence numbers on all prescriptions. Patient prescriptions must be detailed, including name, age, nationality, and diagnosis, and will be restricted to a 30-day supply. Initially, 15 conditions were specified, but these have been replaced by guidelines specific to each medical field. As it stands, only the Medical Council and Thai Traditional Medicine have established guidelines, leaving shops dependent on these practitioners for cannabis prescriptions. A staff member prepares a flower bud of marijuana for a customer at a cannabis shop after Thailand started banning the sale of cannabis to those without a prescription in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, June 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Modern medical guidelines currently permit cannabis use for epilepsy, nausea and vomiting from cancer treatment, neuropathic pain, and muscle spasticity. Meanwhile, Thai Traditional Medicine includes symptoms such as headaches, nausea, appetite loss, and cancer-related pain. Dr Somruek emphasised that compliance is crucial, with shops required to obtain proper operating licences and adhere strictly to medical guidelines. Smoking cannabis on-site will be banned, and sales will only occur with a valid prescription from a designated professional. The industry is at a critical juncture. Shop owners must swiftly adapt, securing the necessary medical personnel and licences to navigate this regulatory landscape. Failure to comply could result in a massive wave of closures, reshaping the market entirely. This regulatory overhaul not only impacts businesses but also affects patients and users, who will now require verified prescriptions for access. The changes signal the government's intent to tighten control over cannabis use, emphasising medical supervision and regulated distribution. As the year progresses, the focus will be on how quickly shops can adjust to these regulations and what the broader implications will be for Thailand’s cannabis market. With significant hurdles ahead, stakeholders are scrambling to align with the new legal framework to avoid widespread shutdowns. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-07-01

Thailand Eyes Global Stage with Soft Power Push Led by Paetongtarn File photo released by Thailand's Government Spokesman Office shows Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra arrives at Government house in Bangkok Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has announced a grand plan to export Thailand's soft power globally. Taking on the culture portfolio in a new cabinet, she vows to promote Thailand's cultural assets, despite potentially facing suspension by the Constitutional Court for alleged ethical breaches. Her initiative aims to boost the nation's cultural influence as part of her government's broader agenda. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365289-thailand-eyes-global-stage-with-soft-power-push-led-by-paetongtarn/

File photo released by Thailand's Government Spokesman Office shows Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra arrives at Government house in Bangkok Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has announced a grand plan to export Thailand's soft power globally. Taking on the culture portfolio in a new cabinet, she vows to promote Thailand's cultural assets, despite potentially facing suspension by the Constitutional Court for alleged ethical breaches. Her initiative aims to boost the nation's cultural influence as part of her government's broader agenda. Paetongtarn, daughter of Pheu Thai's Thaksin Shinawatra, may be ordered to step down, pending a court decision regarding her actions during the Thai-Cambodian border conflict. Without giving specifics, she confirmed intentions to elevate and market Thailand’s cultural prowess globally. Previously, a budget of 5.1 billion baht was set aside by a past Pheu Thai-led government for this cultural scheme, though progress has been limited. As Culture Minister, Paetongtarn has committed to developing soft power alongside tourism and sports projects. However, should the court decide against her tomorrow, Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai is expected to step in as caretaker prime minister. Phumtham, closely aligned with Thaksin, would likely manage the interior portfolio simultaneously. This cabinet reshuffle, placing Thaksin’s daughter in charge of culture, has sparked discussions about tactics to maintain her role within the Pheu Thai-led government. Thammasat University's Prinya Thaewanarumitkul highlighted it as a strategic move to retain her influence. Should Paetongtarn be removed from her position, Pheu Thai MP Chaikasem Nitisiri could be appointed as the new prime minister. Paetongtarn faces allegations of political naivety and compromising Thailand’s interests while interacting with Cambodian leader Hun Sen, a situation perceived to harm the nation's prestige. Despite potential political upheaval, the Pheu Thai Party remains the central force in the coalition government, with Thaksin likely aiming to keep the premiership within his party. Chaikasem, one of Pheu Thai's prime ministerial candidates in the 2023 elections, joins Paetongtarn and former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin as possible successors. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-07-01

Wealthy Wannabe Dines and Dashes at Pattaya Restaurants Picture via Facebook/ สายข่าวพัทยา PATTAYA – A Thai man, claiming to be loaded, dined and dashed at two Pattaya eateries, leaving bills totalling over 23,000 baht unpaid. Despite his confession, police have set him free, causing a stir among locals and restaurant owners. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365286-wealthy-wannabe-dines-and-dashes-at-pattaya-restaurants/

Picture via Facebook/ สายข่าวพัทยา PATTAYA – A Thai man, claiming to be loaded, dined and dashed at two Pattaya eateries, leaving bills totalling over 23,000 baht unpaid. Despite his confession, police have set him free, causing a stir among locals and restaurant owners. The saga began on June 22, when a frustrated restaurant owner reported the incident to Mueang Pattaya Police Station. The owner, having received no resolution, later turned to Channel 7 for support. The suspect, who bragged about earning thousands daily on a cruise ship, ordered a lavish spread worth 7,690 baht and borrowed 4,000 baht for tips before vanishing. CCTV footage reveals the suspect, known as Wanchalong, confidently exiting the restaurant after a quick chat with a woman. Contrary to expectations, he never returned. Taking matters into his own hands, the owner tracked Wanchalong to an internet café and brought him to the police, who released him, citing no flagrant offence. The incident has caught local attention, especially among business owners. Another restaurateur, Siriluck, disclosed that Wanchalong also skipped a bill of over 10,000 baht at her place and borrowed an additional 2,000 baht. Both owners are gathering more evidence to press charges. This case contrasts with a British man's experience in Phuket, where a dine-and-dash attempt resulted in an altercation with local performers. The differing outcomes have sparked debate on law enforcement practices. Restaurant owners are urging police to take swift action as they seek justice for the unpaid bills. The situation highlights the challenges businesses face when dealing with deceitful patrons and the complexities of handling such incidents legally. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-01

Mini Cooper Hits Bike in Bangkok, One Dead, One Critical video screenshot A speeding red Mini Cooper struck a motorbike in Bangkok’s Phasi Charoen district, resulting in one death and critical injuries to another. The incident happened early Sunday near Soi Phetkasem 19. The driver fled but has since contacted police to surrender. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365285-mini-cooper-hits-bike-in-bangkok-one-dead-one-critical/

video screenshot A speeding red Mini Cooper struck a motorbike in Bangkok’s Phasi Charoen district, resulting in one death and critical injuries to another. The incident happened early Sunday near Soi Phetkasem 19. The driver fled but has since contacted police to surrender. The crash occurred as the Mini Cooper descended a bridge around 6am, hitting motorcycle taxi driver Dulyawat Nilkoet, 27. His passenger, Jittima, 30, suffered critical injuries and later died in hospital. The driver of the Mini Cooper left the scene post-collision. Police utilised CCTV footage to locate the vehicle at a nearby condominium just 1 kilometre away. The driver was not present, prompting authorities to coordinate with the condominium's management for further investigation. Pol Lt Worapong Sriwino from the Phasi Charoen Police Station managed the vehicle's transport for examination, aiming to press legal charges. The driver of the Mini Cooper has agreed to surrender under police custody. Meanwhile, Dulyawat’s girlfriend voiced her distress over the driver’s failure to assist or call for medical help, adding difficulties due to the hospital’s distance. Her partner remains in ICU with severe head injuries. The police continue their investigation, with formalities underway as the driver prepares to surrender. The focus remains on gathering details to pursue appropriate legal actions against those involved. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-07-01

Thai-Cambodian Border Closures Threaten 60 Billion Baht Loss in Trade Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand may face a significant hit to its economy if the Thai-Cambodian border checkpoints remain closed until the year's end. According to the Department of Foreign Trade (DFT), this could lead to losses exceeding 60 billion baht in border trade. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365269-thai-cambodian-border-closures-threaten-60-billion-baht-loss-in-trade/

UPDATE Massive Fire Engulfs Saraburi Tissue Paper Factory: Reports of Possible 6 Dead Pictures from responders. A devastating blaze broke out at a tissue paper manufacturing plant in Saraburi province on 30 June, leaving at least 10 workers unaccounted for and many others injured, with emergency services from multiple provinces deployed in a desperate bid to rescue survivors and contain the inferno. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365240-fire-erupts-at-tissue-paper-factory-in-saraburi-reports-of-people-trapped-inside/#findComment-19910308

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 1 July 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1365257-thailand-live-tuesday-1-july-2025/

EU Visa Requirement for Thais Remains Unchanged, Ministry Confirms File photo for reference only The Foreign Ministry has firmly dismissed circulating social media reports suggesting that the European Union intends to lift the Schengen visa requirement for Thai nationals. These claims have inaccurately stated that Thai travellers would need only to complete the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) registration, bypassing the usual visa application process. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365256-eu-visa-requirement-for-thais-remains-unchanged-ministry-confirms/

Driver Error Sends Pickup Crashing into Bangkok Police Station Picture courtesy of Khaosod via The Thaiger BANGKOK – In a startling turn of events, a Mitsubishi Triton pickup truck ploughed into the entrance of the Yannawa Police Station, Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365218-driver-error-sends-pickup-crashing-into-bangkok-police-station/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod via The Thaiger BANGKOK – In a startling turn of events, a Mitsubishi Triton pickup truck ploughed into the entrance of the Yannawa Police Station, Bangkok. The incident occurred around 11pm last night, when driver Apichai, 36, accidentally hit the accelerator instead of the brake while turning onto Surasak Road. Thankfully, the crash caused no injuries, though it did result in damage to government property. The investigation swiftly pinpointed the cause: driver error. Apichai admitted to mistakenly pressing the accelerator pedal while attempting to brake. A breathalyser test conducted by traffic police confirmed that alcohol was not a factor, with a reading of 0 milligrams percent reported by KhaoSod. In response to the accident, Apichai was charged with reckless driving leading to damage to government property. He faced a fine of 2,000 baht (approximately US$60), wrapping up this unusual incident with a lighter penalty than it might have been had substances been involved. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-06-30

New Thai Cabinet Finalised: PM Paetongtarn Takes Culture Minister Role File photo – Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, center, arrives at Government House for a cabinet meeting in Bangkok, Thailand, Tuesday, June 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) The new Thai Cabinet has been finalised, with the Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, also assuming the role of Minister of Culture. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365205-new-thai-cabinet-finalised-pm-paetongtarn-takes-culture-minister-role/

File photo – Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, center, arrives at Government House for a cabinet meeting in Bangkok, Thailand, Tuesday, June 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) The new Thai Cabinet has been finalised, with the Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, also assuming the role of Minister of Culture. The detailed list, now presented to the King, outlines significant appointments aimed at strengthening the government. Phumtham Vechayachai transitions from the Ministry of Defence to take over as Minister of Interior, while General Nataphol Nakpanich steps into the role of Defence Minister. Sudawan Wangsupakijkosol has been repositioned to oversee Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation. Additional noteworthy appointments include Phongkwan Jungroongruangkit as Labour Minister and Jatuporn Buruspat taking the helm at the Commerce Ministry. Suchart Chomklin and Det-Ism Khawthong join the Interior Ministry as Deputy Ministers, reinforcing the government's focus on internal affairs. Meanwhile, Narumon Pinyosinwat is appointed as Education Minister, and Atthakorn Srilatthayakorn takes charge of the Agriculture Ministry. These strategic changes are crafted to drive innovation and stability across various sectors, ensuring effective governance and progressive development for Thailand. Adapted by ASEAN Now from INN News 2025-06-30

Billboard Collapses onto Car in Bangkok near Fai Chai Intersection Pictures courtesy of Siam Rath BANGKOK – On 29th June at 3:53 PM, a billboard collapsed onto a car near the Fai Chai intersection. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365204-billboard-collapses-onto-car-in-bangkok-near-fai-chai-intersection/

Pictures courtesy of Siam Rath BANGKOK – On 29th June at 3:53 PM, a billboard collapsed onto a car near the Fai Chai intersection. The Bang Khun Non Fire and Rescue Station responded swiftly, discovering that the billboard had not only struck a vehicle but also brought down power lines and several poles, obstructing one lane of traffic. Emergency services quickly cordoned off the hazardous area and coordinated with the Metropolitan Electricity Authority and district officers to address the fallout and restore safety. Traffic in the vicinity experienced delays as crews worked to clear the debris and secure the site. No injuries were reported, but the incident has raised concerns about the safety and stability of large advertising structures, particularly during adverse weather conditions. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Siam Rath 2025-06-30

Hun Sen’s Thai Audio Leak Ignites Firestorm on Chinese Social Media Composite image courtesy of Facebook The Nation Hun Sen, Cambodia's former Prime Minister, is facing a torrent of criticism on Chinese social media after leaking sensitive details about Thailand's Shinawatra family. His actions, revealing their exile accommodation, are being blasted as a serious breach of trust. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365200-hun-sen’s-thai-audio-leak-ignites-firestorm-on-chinese-social-media/