NationThailand-Oct 23
Thailand is seeking to strengthen its position in Asia’s cannabis, hemp and kratom industries by raising medical, cultivation and production standards while expanding research and higher-value processing. Industry figures and government officials say the next phase of growth will depend less on production volume and more on scientific evidence, product safety, internationally recognized standards and clear regulation.
Thailand has potential to become a regional center for raw materials, processing and medical applications if it can combine its agricultural strengths and traditional knowledge with scientific research and credible quality controls. Dr Kengpong Tangarunsanti, president of the Senior Health Service and Trade Association, said cannabis and kratom extracts could have a role in elderly care, palliative treatment and the management of certain chronic or specific symptoms, including insomnia, anxiety and pain. He stressed, however, that medical use must be based on appropriate indications, evidence and safety standards. “There is demand for health and elderly-care products containing cannabis extracts, but research evidence, product-quality standards and safety are essential to build confidence in their use,” he said. Pathummas Sirikawin, deputy director of the Division of Medical Cannabis at the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, said confidence in the industry had to begin at cultivation sites. Thailand has developed certification systems covering standards such as Good Agricultural and Collection Practices (GACP), organic cultivation and Global GACP, while production batches must undergo laboratory testing to verify quality and safety.
The Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine officially maintains a Thailand Cannabis GACP certification system and lists certified cultivation sites. Read more at:
