Thai authorities have again warned travellers not to attempt to smuggle cannabis overseas, saying offenders risk lengthy prison sentences, heavy fines and confiscation of the drugs. The warning issued on 4 July 2026, follows a growing number of cases in recent months in which passengers were arrested after allegedly concealing cannabis while travelling to countries where it remains illegal.
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Dr Thewan Thaneerat, deputy director-general of the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, said the department has seen frequent reports of travellers being caught carrying cannabis on international flights. He stressed that transporting cannabis into countries where it is prohibited is regarded as a serious criminal offence.
Officials said modern airport security systems combine high-resolution computerised X-ray technology with the expertise of customs officers, making it increasingly difficult to hide cannabis in luggage. The equipment is designed to detect abnormalities, including dense organic materials and controlled herbs such as cannabis.
Authorities added that X-ray machines used at cargo inspection points are also capable of detecting cannabis regardless of the form in which it is transported. As a result, attempts to smuggle the drug carry a high risk of detection and full legal prosecution.
Dr Peeracha Kookasemkit, director of the Medical Cannabis Division, said anyone attempting to take cannabis out of Thailand without completing customs procedures, or trying to evade inspection, faces severe penalties under the law. Offenders may be sentenced to up to 10 years in prison, fined four times the value of the goods including duties, or receive both a prison sentence and a financial penalty. Any seized cannabis will also be confiscated.
The Customs Department has further strengthened enforcement by introducing revised penalty criteria. Since June 17, 2026, fines have been set at 30,000 baht per kilogramme of cannabis seized, with all confiscated cannabis becoming state property.
Thai officials noted that while cannabis in Thailand is regulated under specific laws for medical and health-related use, many countries continue to classify it as a serious illegal narcotic, with serious legal consequences. Travellers are therefore urged to check and comply with the laws of their destination before departure.
Țhe Nation reported that authorities said following the regulations of overseas destinations is essential to avoid severe legal consequences, including imprisonment and significant financial penalties, whether the offences result from ignorance of local laws or deliberate attempts to smuggle cannabis.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 6 July 2026