Thailand's Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin, announced his intention to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic by the end of the year, reversing the country's 2022 decriminalization. He aims to limit marijuana use to medical and health purposes, with current lax regulations permitting widespread sales. The domestic cannabis industry has flourished since decriminalization, attracting foreign investment and showing potential for significant growth. The new government is expected to impose stricter regulations on marijuana cultivation and sales. While many countries in the region have stringent drug laws, Thailand was the first in Southeast Asia to legalize medical marijuana in 2019.