File photo for reference only

 

The Thai ministries of justice and public health have prohibited the sale of kratom leaves and kratom juice within 1,000 meters of schools, aimed at protecting vulnerable groups like children and youth. Signed by Caretaker Justice Minister Pol Col Tawee Sodsong and Caretaker Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin, this regulation restricts sales in specified areas to curb easy access and mitigate potential misuse by young people. The measure will be enforceable 30 days after its publication in the Royal Gazette, with violators facing fines up to 50,000 baht.

 

This new regulation is an extension of the Kratom Plant Act BE 2565 (2022), which already limits the sale, advertising, and consumption of kratom. It introduces further restrictions on selling methods, banning sales via hawking or stalls in public spaces. The act also restricts sales in settings such as educational institutions, dormitories, and public recreational areas.

 

Concerns over kratom's accessibility, especially near schools, prompted this regulation. Authorities aim to reduce the health risks associated with excessive kratom consumption, particularly among minors. The restriction also extends protection to pregnant and breastfeeding women from potential health hazards.

 

Looking forward, authorities plan to closely monitor compliance with the regulation and may introduce additional measures if necessary. Experts emphasize the need for ongoing public awareness campaigns to inform communities about the risks of kratom misuse. Enforcement of the regulation will be key to its success and will likely require collaboration between local agencies and schools.

 

Key Takeaways

• Kratom sales banned within 1,000 meters of schools to protect youth.
• Regulation builds on the Kratom Plant Act BE 2565 (2022).
• Violators could face fines up to 50,000 baht.

 

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-09-12

 

 

I thought all kratom sales were illegal, or is just the bottled stuff with cough syrup.