File photo for reference only

 

The Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) has begun enforcing regulations that ban the sale of kratom near schools and in public areas. These measures, effective from October 12, aim to regulate the market and protect young people. Sellers face fines of up to 50,000 baht for non-compliance.

 

The decision follows directives from the Justice and Public Health ministries. The new rules prohibit selling kratom leaves and infused water within 1,000 meters of educational institutions and disallow sales in public spaces like roadside stalls. Kratom sales are restricted to authorized shops only.

 

Pol Maj Gen Suriya Singhakamol, ONCB secretary-general, emphasized the importance of these regulations. He instructed regional offices to enforce the rules diligently. Suriya highlighted the balance between promoting kratom as a cash crop and safeguarding youth from potential misuse.

 

Experts believe these rules could stabilize the market while addressing public health concerns. Community members are encouraged to report any violations to the ONCB hotline. This collaborative approach aims to ensure compliance and protect vulnerable groups, particularly children and young people.

 

Looking forward, further monitoring will determine the effectiveness of these restrictions. Authorities expect compliance will align with objectives to regulate kratom use responsibly, ensuring it remains a beneficial economic resource without compromising youth safety.

 

Key Takeaways

• New rules restrict kratom sales near schools and in public spaces.
• Violators face fines; public urged to report breaches via hotline.
• Regulations aim to balance economic benefit with youth protection.

 

Related Stories:

Narcotics Agency Tightens Kratom Sales Nationwide

Police Arrest Couple Over Cannabis, Kratom Sales in Thonburi

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-10-13

 

 

Here we go again with the arbitrary distances they love in Thai law. Much like the "300m alcohol rule", although 1,000m is even more ridiculous. It basically means that no authorised sellers can exist in Bangkok