Bangkok: The Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) has observed a significant increase in marijuana and kratom users following their decriminalization, according to recent research findings. ONCB Secretary General Pol. Lt. Gen. Panurat Lakboon highlighted that the number of users has doubled since the substances were removed from drug laws, showcasing the ONCB's role in enforcing legal changes as per the Ministry of Public Health's directives.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Lt. Gen. Panurat explained that the ONCB, acting as an academic body, has been consistently monitoring and researching drug-related issues in Thailand in collaboration with universities since 2001. The research is evaluated every 3-4 years to track significant trends. In 2019, before decriminalization, there were around 350,000 cannabis users and 400,000-500,000 kratom users. These numbers surged post-2021-2022 policy changes, with recent 2024 surveys showing over 700,000 cannabis users and up to 1,300,000 kratom users.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Phanurat further commented that adapting measures for cannabis and kratom is primarily a governmental responsibility. The ONCB remains committed to compiling and presenting academic data, underscoring the sharp rise in users following the decriminalization of these substances.
For businesses engaged in cannabis-related activities, the ONCB Secretary-General mentioned that they must await definitive governmental policies. Any assistance or guidelines for operators will be determined by the government and the Ministry of Public Health, particularly as the focus remains on medical applications.
Currently, cannabis flowers remain regulated, and any shift to reclassify cannabis as a controlled substance will require a formal announcement from the Ministry of Public Health. The ONCB will play a pivotal role in enforcing any such legal changes.