Tourism Cannabis Reclassified: Thailand's Tourism Strategy

[snoop1130]

File photo for reference only

 

In a move set to reshape Thailand’s tourism landscape, the recent reclassification of cannabis as a narcotic is expected to bolster the country's appeal to family travellers. Industry leaders see more benefits than drawbacks, despite potential challenges to certain sectors.

 

Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun, president of the Thai Hotels Association (THA), explained to Thansettakij that while the change is indeed government-led, feedback from the tourism industry highlights its likely positive impact. He noted that many tourists, especially families, feel uncomfortable in areas where the strong smell of cannabis is prevalent. This atmosphere has deterred family travellers from visiting urban locales, impacting Thailand’s image as a family-friendly destination.

 

While the niche market for cannabis tourism might suffer, Thienprasit emphasised the need for family-focused tourism. Data from leading travel platforms like Booking.com illustrate that family travel is outpacing other segments, making it a critical area that the tourism industry cannot ignore.

 

Adith Chairattananon, secretary-general of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), echoed the positive sentiment. He highlighted the social advantages of the move, particularly in protecting young people from normalising drug use.

 

With the Asia–Pacific region accounting for 70% of Thailand’s tourist arrivals, the decision aligns with regional legal norms, as cannabis remains illegal in many countries. This has previously led to tensions, with some governments advising against travel to destinations where cannabis use is allowed. For instance, nations like South Korea conduct drug tests on citizens returning from Thailand.

 

ATTA President Sittiwat Chewaratanaporn noted that major markets including China, South Korea, Taiwan, and Australia do not support cannabis use. Restricting cannabis to medical use could thus improve Thailand’s attraction and cultural compatibility with these crucial markets.

 

Kitti Pornsiwakit, president of the Association of Thai Tourism Marketing (ATTM), detailed both the advantages and challenges of the policy shift. By focusing on medical cannabis, Thailand could enhance its image as a premium wellness destination, reduce risks of cannabis misuse among youths, and address food contamination concerns, particularly for Asian tourists.

 

However, Kitti warned of potential negative repercussions. The decision might deter European cannabis enthusiasts and disrupt over 20,000 cannabis-related businesses. Without clear governmental support strategies, this could lead to investment uncertainties and perceptions of policy instability.

 

The reclassification of cannabis is a strategic move by Thailand to refocus its tourism industry on family travel and align itself with key regional markets. While there are potential downsides, particularly for businesses tied to cannabis tourism, the consensus is that the benefits for family tourism and societal well-being outweigh these concerns. This shift, if managed well, could ensure Thailand maintains its allure as a welcoming and safe destination for families worldwide.

 

As the industry adjusts, stakeholders will be keenly watching governmental measures to mitigate negative impacts on businesses and bolster Thailand’s position as both a family and wellness tourism hub.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-08-13

 

[dinsdale]

31 minutes ago, snoop1130 said:

While the niche market for cannabis tourism might suffer

The niche market worth billions and will see small investors lose everything and that will now be controlled by a few of the super rich.

[daveAustin]

I think governmental flip flopping is far more detrimental to tourism than any perceived upside toward visiting families on the reclassification of this harmless medicine. It’s farcical. 

[blaze master]

Have they not been appealing to families for a long time already. How many times have we heard family friendly image bla bla bla.

 

 

[impulse]

Not to worry. 

 

Once they figure out how to regulate it and tax it so the right Thai families make all the real money, weed will be back on the tourists' menu.

 

Everyone else along the value chain will have to settle for scraps.

 

 

[candide]

1 hour ago, snoop1130 said:

He noted that many tourists, especially families, feel uncomfortable in areas where the strong smell of cannabis is prevalent. This atmosphere has deterred family travellers from visiting urban locales, impacting Thailand’s image as a family-friendly destination.

Lol! So families care about weed smell, but widespread and quite visible prostitution should not be a problem...... 

[Hummin]

1 hour ago, dinsdale said:

The niche market worth billions and will see small investors lose everything and that will now be controlled by a few of the super rich.

Where do you have your numbers from?

 

The pot tourism I have seen is a low class phenomenon and not especially wealthy tourist spending much money

[norsurin]

Finally dont need to see dopeheads only in Thailand for smoking weed.

[novacova]

19 minutes ago, candide said:

So families care about weed smell

Most people don’t like the stink it makes in the air, especially the wife who avoided the stinky areas during the th freak-out refer madness psychosis episode.

[candide]

Just now, novacova said:

Most people don’t like the stink it makes in the air, especially the wife who avoided the stinky areas during the th freak-out refer madness psychosis episode.

Thanks for truncating my post and missing the point I made,. 🙂

[dinsdale]

43 minutes ago, Hummin said:

Where do you have your numbers from?

 

The pot tourism I have seen is a low class phenomenon and not especially wealthy tourist spending much money

You seem not to be fully informed. This is not simply a tourist thing. Dope shops are nation wide and it's not just retail but growers.