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On September 20, 2024, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Seri Supratid, Director of the Climate Change and Disaster Center at Rangsit University and Vice President of the National Disaster Warning Council Foundation, shared an urgent flood risk update on Facebook regarding "Storm Soulik." He highlighted areas at high risk of heavy rainfall with more than 70% severity, which could pose serious threats to life and property. According to Dr. Seri, the Water Crisis Relief Team, Civil Society, and the National Disaster Warning Council Foundation have updated their forecasts. Various provinces face potential flooding, with different areas becoming vulnerable on specific days. People living in areas marked in blue on the flood risk maps should remain alert and prepared for possible emergencies. Dr. Seri’s team, in collaboration with ESRI, has developed a high-resolution flood simulation model specifically for urban communities in Nong Khai, Khon Kaen, Chiang Mai, and Lampang. Residents in blue or purple zones are advised to stay vigilant and monitor local weather updates. “We cannot afford further losses,” Dr. Seri urged, calling for readiness and cooperation. Communities requiring assistance from the Water Crisis Relief Team can reach out to Mr. Noppadol Makthong at 099-0288333. Source: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Seri Supratid, expert on the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and Chairman of the Executive Board of Futuretales LAB, MQDC. TOP picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-09-21

NSPRT Calls for Mass Protest Against Constitutional Amendments for Thaksin Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The Network of Students and People for Reform of Thailand (NSPRT) has issued a public call for mass protests, rallying citizens to oppose proposed amendments to the constitution, which they believe are intended to benefit former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338724-nsprt-calls-for-mass-protest-against-constitutional-amendments-for-thaksin/

The Network of Students and People for Reform of Thailand (NSPRT) has issued a public call for mass protests, rallying citizens to oppose proposed amendments to the constitution, which they believe are intended to benefit former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. The call to action was made on September 20, 2024, when NSPRT leader Phichit Chaiyamongkol posted on Facebook urging people to join the street protests. In his post, Phichit emphasized that while constitutional amendments are possible, they must be done in accordance with established principles. He voiced concerns that these amendments appear to be driven by political motivations rather than by the need for genuine reform. According to him, the amendments should not be enacted solely to protect those currently in power. Phichit also expressed suspicion about the role of Dr. Chusak Sirinij, who is leading the push for the constitutional changes. He warned that the public might view these efforts in one of two ways: Serving a "Big Boss": The proposed amendments could be perceived as a move to protect Thaksin, which would likely lead to further public dissatisfaction. Many already believe that the ruling Pheu Thai Party is pushing for changes not to benefit the people, but to serve the interests of Thaksin. This perception could deepen mistrust in the government, reported Siam Rath. Political Diversion: Another interpretation is that the push for amendments is a tactic to divert public attention from more pressing issues, such as the Prime Minister’s lack of leadership and the controversy surrounding the government's digital currency policy. Regardless of the underlying reasons, the NSPRT believes this issue has become another significant point of contention. The group is now rallying citizens to protest against these constitutional amendments, which they view as serving personal political interests. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-09-21

Baht-boom: Thailand’s currency surge leaves tourism, exports short by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Nikkei Asia Thailand’s baht is rocketing towards its biggest quarterly rise since the Asian financial crisis, a development that has key tourism and export industries clutching their pearls. Since the end of June, the baht has surged 10% against the dollar, its most significant gain since early 1998. This sudden leap has prompted frantic appeals from the tourism, hotel sectors, and business chambers for measures to cool down the rally. Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan and Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul implored the Bank of Thailand (BoT) to step in and manage the baht’s runaway ascent. Driven by a slump in the US dollar ahead of the Federal Reserve’s recent rate cut, the baht’s meteoric rise has far outstripped those of Thailand’s trade partners. The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) warns that this disparity may push international buyers to seek cheaper alternatives. Meanwhile, despite robust foreign tourist numbers, the Tourism Council of Thailand fears that the strong baht will soon squeeze spending on shopping and hotels. This currency conundrum is the latest headache for new Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who vowed to stimulate Thailand’s economy and ease the cost of living. While the country’s GDP growth lags behind neighbours like Indonesia and the Philippines, the tourism and export sectors have been rare bright spots. Chinese imports Exports, which constitute nearly 60% of Thailand’s GDP, face fresh hurdles. The baht’s sharp appreciation is exacerbating existing woes—from high production costs to an influx of cheap Chinese imports, bemoans FTI Chairman Kriengkrai Thiennukul. “The rapid baht gains are crippling exporters. They’re at their wits’ end and struggling to stay afloat. We need a stable baht and relief from high financing costs.” Paopoom added yesterday, September 19, that the currency’s wild swings make it tough for exporters to plan. It’s crucial, he argued, to ensure the baht isn’t “too weak, too strong, or too volatile.” Responding to the soaring volatility, BoT Governor Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput pledged today that the central bank is keeping a close eye on the baht, aiming to prevent extreme swings in exchange rates. The baht’s 3-month implied volatility against the dollar sits at a whopping 9.12%, its highest since January, well above this year’s average of 7.98%, according to Bloomberg data. Foreign funds have poured $2.6 billion into Thai bonds and stocks this quarter, boosting both the currency and the main equities index. The baht’s rally will likely be a hot topic at the BoT rate-setting meeting on October 16, as explained by Nattaporn Triratanasirikul, an economist at Kasikorn Research Centre. Monetary policy Australia & New Zealand Banking Group economist Krystal Tan added that concerns over asset quality, an uneven economic recovery, and scaled-down government aid may increase the chances of monetary policy easing soon. While the baht’s rise hasn’t heavily impacted travellers yet, it could deter foreign tourists from big spending sprees, noted Surawat Akaraworamat, Vice-President of the Tourism Council of Thailand. Suksit Suvunditkul, president of the southern chapter of the Thai Hotels Association, warned that a persistently strong baht could eventually decrease tourist arrivals due to higher costs, reported Bangkok Post. For now, Thailand is on track to meet its target of welcoming 36.7 million tourists this year and generating 2 trillion baht in revenue. Arrivals have already hit nearly 25 million, a 31% jump from last year. But as the baht continues its wild ride, industry leaders are bracing for the stormy seas ahead. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-21

Baht's biggest surge since 1998 poses risk to tourism and Exports Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The baht is experiencing its sharpest rise in 26 years, reaching levels last seen during the 1998 Asian financial crisis. This surge has hampered Thailand's recovery in the tourism and export sectors, Bloomberg News reports. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338716-bahts-biggest-surge-since-1998-poses-risk-to-tourism-and-exports/

The Thai baht is experiencing its sharpest rise in 26 years, reaching levels last seen during the 1998 Asian financial crisis. This surge has hampered Thailand's recovery in the tourism and export sectors, Bloomberg News reports. While the baht's rise is partly linked to a weakening US dollar ahead of the Federal Reserve's anticipated rate cut, its unexpected appreciation against key trade currencies has made Thai products less competitive abroad. Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan and Deputy Finance Minister Paophum Rojanasakul have called on the Bank of Thailand (BOT) to take action to curb the baht’s rapid rise and manage exchange rate volatility. Kriengkrai Thiennukul, chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), noted that the strong currency has driven up production costs and worsened the influx of low-cost imports from China. "We need a stable baht and help managing financial costs," Kriengkrai emphasized. Paophum added that it's vital for the baht to remain "neither too strong nor too weak, but above all, stable." Despite continued growth in tourism, the stronger baht may reduce tourists' spending power, particularly affecting shopping and accommodation. Surawat Akaraworamat, vice president of the Tourism Council of Thailand, pointed out that the higher exchange rate makes goods and services appear more expensive to foreign tourists. The baht’s strength may also hamper Thailand's ability to meet its tourism goals for the year. This presents a fresh challenge for Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who is focused on boosting the economy and lowering living costs amid slower growth in Thailand compared to other ASEAN countries. Both tourism and exports are vital economic drivers, repoerted The Nation. Picture courtesy: TTG Asia The BOT has voiced concern over sharp currency fluctuations, with the baht appreciating 9.14% against the US dollar in the past three months, significantly above the yearly average of 7.96%. This volatility has put the export sector under additional pressure. The BOT has committed to stepping in to stabilize the baht and mitigate further damage to the economy. Nattaporn Triratanasirikul, deputy managing director of Kasikorn Research Center, noted that the currency’s sustained strength will be a key topic for the BOT’s Monetary Policy Committee meeting on October 16. TOP Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-09-21

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 21 September 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1338715-thailand-live-saturday-21-september-2024/

Thai hotels back new co-payment scheme amid fraud cases Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Hotel operators in Thailand have embraced a proposal to revive the co-payment scheme for hotel expenses, viewing it as a potential boost for domestic spending. However, concerns have been raised regarding 1,400 unresolved fraud cases from the scheme’s previous phases. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338682-thai-hotels-back-new-co-payment-scheme-amid-fraud-cases/

The cannabis seized at Stansted Airport. Picture courtesy: NCA via ESSEX Live Former Arsenal Player Arrested Over £600K Cannabis Smuggling from Thailand Jay Emmanuel-Thomas, once a promising talent for Arsenal, finds himself in serious legal trouble after being arrested for attempting to smuggle cannabis worth approximately £600,000 (around $800,000) via a British airport. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338711-former-arsenal-player-arrested-over-£600k-cannabis-smuggling-from-thailand/

Former Arsenal Player Arrested Over £600K Cannabis Smuggling from Thailand The cannabis seized at Stansted Airport. Picture courtesy: NCA via ESSEX Live Jay Emmanuel-Thomas, once a promising talent for Arsenal, finds himself in serious legal trouble after being arrested for attempting to smuggle cannabis worth approximately £600,000 (around $800,000) via a British airport. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338711-former-arsenal-player-arrested-over-£600k-cannabis-smuggling-from-thailand/

The cannabis seized at Stansted Airport. Picture courtesy: NCA via ESSEX Live Jay Emmanuel-Thomas, once a promising talent for Arsenal, finds himself in serious legal trouble after being arrested for attempting to smuggle cannabis worth approximately £600,000 (around $800,000) via a British airport. The 33-year-old footballer, currently playing for Scottish second-tier team Greenock Morton, was apprehended at his residence near Glasgow on Wednesday morning. The National Crime Agency (NCA) reported that Emmanuel-Thomas was then taken to Carlisle in northern England for questioning. Emmanuel-Thomas' career began at Arsenal, where he made five appearances, including a notable appearance in a Champions League match against Shakhtar Donetsk in November 2010. He later played for numerous clubs, including Ipswich, Bristol City, Queens Park Rangers, and Aberdeen, as well as a stint in Thailand with PTT Rayong. The situation unraveled when customs officers discovered around 60 kilograms (130 pounds) of cannabis hidden in two suitcases at Stansted Airport, arriving on a flight from Bangkok on 2nd September. Two women were initially arrested at the scene. Former Arsenal striker Emmanuel-Thomas. Picture courtesy: instagram officialjet10 via Daily Mail Emmanuel-Thomas now faces charges of importing class B drugs into the United Kingdom. This offence carries a maximum penalty of 14 years imprisonment under UK law. This incident comes shortly after the NCA had issued warnings to travellers about bringing cannabis into the UK from countries like Thailand, Canada, and the US, where cannabis laws are more lenient. The strict UK legislation aims to curb the illegal drug trade and prevent smuggling operations. Sources: Agencies -- 2024-09-20

Government Strengthens Efforts to Tackle Narcotics Crisis Picture courtesy: NNT The government has reinforced its commitment to addressing the narcotics crisis as a top priority. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra emphasized new strategies in a key meeting with the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) aimed at tackling Thailand’s persistent drug problems. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338647-government-strengthens-efforts-to-tackle-narcotics-crisis/

The government has reinforced its commitment to addressing the narcotics crisis as a top priority. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra emphasized new strategies in a key meeting with the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) aimed at tackling Thailand’s persistent drug problems. During her address, the Prime Minister announced plans to expand drug rehabilitation programs in 25 pilot provinces. This initiative aims to help former drug users reintegrate into society, reducing the stigma and employment barriers that often lead to relapse. She highlighted the success of rehabilitation models in Thawat Buri and Tha Wang Pha as blueprints for nationwide implementation. A key part of the plan involves strengthening law enforcement’s ability to combat drug trafficking, especially along Thailand’s borders. Acknowledging that enforcement alone isn’t enough, the government’s comprehensive approach emphasizes rehabilitation alongside prosecution. "Prosecution must go hand in hand with rehabilitation," Paetongtarn stated. "We are committed to providing job opportunities for former drug users after treatment to lower the chances of relapse." She also discussed efforts to improve coordination between government agencies and local communities to ensure better treatment outcomes and a unified approach to the nation’s drug crisis. This multi-faceted strategy targets the root causes of drug addiction, aiming to enhance public health and safety. By addressing both the supply and demand sides of the narcotics issue, the government seeks to reduce crime and improve community well-being. As these measures are implemented, all eyes are on the government to see if these enhanced efforts will deliver meaningful results. The Prime Minister remains optimistic, confident that these initiatives will lead to a safer, healthier Thailand. Picture courtesy: NNT -- 2024-09-20

Krabi Airport: Woman Lying on Baggage Conveyor Belt Not Illegal but Inappropriate Picture courtesy: MGR online Krabi International Airport officials have addressed a recent incident involving a woman lying on a baggage conveyor belt for an Instagram video. Although her actions caused no damage to government property, making them non-pursuable legally, the behaviour has been deemed inappropriate. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338642-krabi-airport-woman-lying-on-baggage-belt-inappropriate-not-illegal/

Krabi International Airport officials have addressed a recent incident involving a woman lying on a baggage conveyor belt for an Instagram video. Although her actions caused no damage to government property, making them non-pursuable legally, the behaviour has been deemed inappropriate. The widely-circulated video on social media shows the woman sprawled across the conveyor belt, accompanied by music and a caption reading, “Can I lie down like this?? Saw it on IG, I’m Thai.” The clip has sparked considerable public criticism and safety concerns. Chanyut Srikaew, acting director of Krabi International Airport, confirmed their awareness of the incident via social media. While no legal boundaries were crossed as no property was harmed, Chanyut stressed that the behaviour was improper and not the intended use of the equipment. In response, the airport plans to install clearer signage and increase staff oversight, working alongside various airlines to prevent similar incidents. Chanyut indicated that the baggage conveyor belt is designed to support heavy loads without gaps, posing minimal injury risk. However, it is meant strictly for luggage. Passengers are advised against sitting or lying on the belt due to potential injuries, particularly from curved sections or falling off. The acting director urged all airport users to avoid such actions to ensure safety standards are maintained. Picture courtesy: MGR online RELATED TOPIC: Thai woman caught lying on baggage conveyor at Krabi Airport -- 2024-09-20

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Friday 20 September 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338638-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-friday-20-september-2024/

NEWS - 20-September.mp4 A doctors’ group yesterday submitted a petition to the prime minister proposing three measures to address the ongoing crisis in the public health system. They suggest increasing the budget to ensure medical staff are paid reasonably, adjusting public health policies such as actively promoting good health practices, and improving protective measures such as legal liability for doctors and medical staff. The government is stepping up the promotion of its new Destination Thailand Visa known as the nomad visa, to attract visitors who wish to work while staying in Thailand for between 6 months and a year. The new visa is expected to help generate revenue for local people and the country. Local authorities in Bangkok issued new rules to say that only “The poor” will be allowed to work as street vendors, they will also face a series of new regulations which include being registered to pay tax on an income less than 300, thousand baht a year. Across the region China.. A 10 year old boy on his way to a Japanese school in the Chinese city of Shenzhen died yesterday after being stabbed on Wednesday, the second such attack near Japanese educational centres in China in recent months. A Singaporean man wanted for drug trafficking has been arrested following his deportation from Thailand, The 31-year-old named Benny Chuan was arrested by Thai authorities on Tuesday, He will be charged today with drug trafficking offences. Todays Weather Tropical storm Soulik … torrential rain across the north east central and north Thailand Chiang Mai and the north: Thunderstorms 32C degrees celsius Bangkok: cloudy with thunder showers 33 Pattaya: cloudy 31C Phuket and the south: Torrential rain and Thunderstorms 29C Hua Hin: Bright, cloudy 32C Much the same over the weekend . AQI: green which is good Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Wunderground.com The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Windy.com. -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-09-20 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5

Homeless Woman Using Illegal Drugs Openly on Pattaya Street Raises Concerns Over City Image By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: TMN Cable TV Pattaya Pattaya — A homeless woman was spotted openly using illegal drugs on Pattaya’s busy Soi Buakhao Road, drawing concern from locals and tourists. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338637-homeless-woman-using-illegal-drugs-openly-on-pattaya-street-raises-concerns-over-city-image/

Pattaya — A homeless woman was spotted openly using illegal drugs on Pattaya’s busy Soi Buakhao, drawing concern from locals and tourists. A Facebook user recently posted about a woman who appeared to be homeless, sitting on the side of Soi Buakhao Road in Pattaya, apparently using illegal drugs openly. The post included photos showing the woman holding drug paraphernalia in one hand and a lighter in the other. Many tourists, both Thai and foreign, passed by and witnessed the distressing scene. Upon investigating the area on September 18th, local reporters found the woman still sitting on the roadside. She was picking at sores on her body, surrounded by heaps of belongings. Some foreign tourists passing by offered her money out of sympathy, while others looked on her with pity. A local resident said that despite previous complaints to authorities, the woman returned to the same spot within two days with even more belongings. The woman is often seen using drugs under the cover of a yellow umbrella, and she reportedly urinated and defecated near drainage pipes, which tarnished Pattaya’s tourism reputation. By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: TMN Cable TV Pattaya Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-09-20

Transgender Monk Hallucinates from Drug Use, Causing Chaos at Temple video screenshot A transgender monk, hallucinating after using crystal meth, wandered around the temple, creating confusion and refusing a drug test. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338636-transgender-monk-hallucinates-from-drug-use-causing-chaos-at-temple/

video screenshot A transgender monk, hallucinating after using crystal meth, wandered around the temple, creating confusion and refusing a drug test. The monk claimed he wanted to testify in court and avoided the test for over three hours. Finally, a urine test showed positive results for drugs, leading to a chaotic disrobing. On September 19, 2014, Pol. Lt. Pansarn Krongsit, Deputy Inspector of Pattaya City Police Station, Chonburi Province, received a report of a monk behaving erratically at Wat Bun Kanchanaram in Nongprue Subdistrict, Bang Lamung District. Upon investigation, they identified the monk as Phra Thirathawin, nicknamed Thammathipo, a transgender. He admitted to being under the influence of crystal meth and made incoherent claims, repeatedly stating he wanted to go to court with evidence of homework forgery. When officers and reporters attempted to assist, he confessed to using crystal meth earlier that day, which had been provided by a temple boy with whom he had a romantic relationship. Though police requested a drug test, Phra Thirathawin insisted on testifying in court, causing confusion. After three hours of negotiation, he finally agreed to a urine test, which turned up positive. He was then defrocked with the help of the temple abbot and handed over to legal authorities for further action. -- 2024-09-20

Thailand Opens Public Feedback on Draft Cannabis and Hemp Law By Kittisak Phalaharn National — On September 18th, 2024, Thai national media reported that the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine has opened public consultations on the draft Cannabis and Hemp Act, running from September 16th to the 30th through the law.go.th website. The public, including farmers, business operators, and citizens, are invited to provide feedback on key aspects of the draft law here. The proposed legislation includes the establishment of a Cannabis and Hemp Board, chaired by the Thai Minister of Public Health, which would be responsible for overseeing the regulation, promotion, and safe use of cannabis and hemp, particularly in medical, agricultural, and industrial sectors. The draft outlines licensing requirements for growing, producing, importing, exporting, and selling cannabis and hemp. While roots, branches, leaves, stems, and seeds are less regulated, cannabis flowers will face stricter control, requiring government licenses for sale, production, and export, according to Thai national media. Special permits will also be required for each import or export transaction. Cultivation licenses will be categorized by the size of the farm, ranging from small (up to 5 rai), medium (5 to 20 rai), and large (over 20 but up to 400 rai). Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-09-20

Thailand Introduces New Bill to Regulate Cannabis While Keeping It Legal FILE - AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit Thailand has unveiled a new bill aimed at regulating its cannabis industry while largely limiting marijuana use to health and medical purposes. This move comes from Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's administration, striving for a balanced policy after several inconsistent approaches. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338625-thailand-introduces-new-bill-to-regulate-cannabis-while-keeping-it-legal/

The Cannabis & Hemp Act of Thailand just dropped: 2025 marks the beginning of Thailand's cannabis leadership in the region Keepers of the supply chain face stricter oversight; consumers will be punished with fines for sheer stupidity only. Carl K Linn Thailand unveils new bill to regulate cannabis while keeping it legal As of January 1st, 2025, cannabis consumers in Thailand will have access to the same wide array of dry flower currently available. Bloomberg Big trouble could come to those who break simple rules: Do not smoke in public. Do not consume extracts with more than 2 % THC without explicit permission. Do not consume if you are under 20, pregnant or breastfeeding. These rules have been present for at least one year, with no enforcement. The significance of this final draft is in what’s missing: There is no “illegalization of recreational use” - which, to make any sense at all, would have required reclassifying cannabis as a narcotic. There is no language requiring cards or pre-existing conditions. These conventional barriers to medical cannabis may be added over the next few months - we shall see. This is a clear win for Deputy Prime Minister Anutin: “The easy availability of the drug became a hot-button political issue during the national election last year, with the ruling Pheu Thai Party vowing to re-list marijuana as a narcotic to restrict its use to just medical purposes due to concerns over addiction. But opposition from Bhumjaithai Party, the second-biggest group in the ruling coalition, has forced Pheu Thai to walk back on its pledge and keep the plant legal.” Cannabis in Thailand will be classified as a medicinal herb. Most new restrictions target the keepers of the supply chains, with tighter licensing, and more transparency. Penalties for violation include heavy fines and up to one year in jail. Full story: arlklinn.substack -- 2024-09-20

FILE - AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit Thailand has unveiled a new bill aimed at regulating its cannabis industry while largely limiting marijuana use to health and medical purposes. This move comes from Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's administration, striving for a balanced policy after several inconsistent approaches. Published by the Ministry of Public Health, the draft legislation allows the use of cannabis and its extracts for medical treatment and research by state agencies. Additionally, it permits the plant's inclusion in herbal, food, and cosmetic products. Notably, unlike previous proposals from former premier Srettha Thavisin’s administration, this bill does not explicitly ban recreational cannabis use or reclassify the plant as a narcotic. The proposed law, however, includes strict penalties for unauthorised cannabis consumption, with fines reaching up to 60,000 baht (£1,350). Sellers of non-compliant cannabis products could face up to a year in jail or fines of up to 100,000 baht (£2,260), or both. The legislation aims to address the widespread usage of cannabis in Thailand, the first Asian country to decriminalise the plant in 2022. Since then, over 9,400 cannabis dispensaries have opened nationwide, particularly in tourist hotspots and business districts. Cannabis regulation was a significant topic in last year's national elections. The ruling Pheu Thai Party initially promised to reclassify marijuana as a narcotic to combat addiction concerns. However, opposition from the Bhumjaithai Party, a crucial coalition partner, led to a compromise to keep the plant legal, reported BLOOMBERG. The draft bill proposes stringent licensing rules for cannabis cultivation, sales, exports, and imports. Existing growers and suppliers will need to apply for new licenses to avoid hefty penalties, including jail terms and fines. While the proposed legislation could offer a clear framework for the cannabis industry, it poses challenges for growers, dispensaries, and consumer-agro firms. These businesses must ensure their products contain no more than 0.2% tetrahydrocannabinol, the psychoactive compound responsible for the “high.” Public and industry stakeholders have until 30th September to submit feedback on the proposed bill. The Ministry of Public Health may revise the legislation before presenting it to the cabinet, who will then forward it to parliament for approval. -- 2024-09-20