Legal status of cannabis and regulation

Abstract

The legal status of cannabis as a narcotic substance varies significantly across countries—ranging from partial legalization and medical-only use to complete prohibition. This paper aims to examine the regulatory and preventive frameworks implemented in selected countries, including measures such as minimum age restrictions, control over production and distribution, and enforcement mechanisms. Particular attention is given to jurisdictions with divergent policy approaches, such as those that have legalized cannabis for both medical and recreational purposes (e.g., Canada), in contrast to countries with stringent prohibition (e.g., Singapore).

In the case of Thailand, the Ministry of Public Health has issued a new regulation aimed at preventing the misuse of cannabis flowers. Under this revised framework, cannabis is designated as a “controlled herb,” recognized for its potential value in research, education, and economic development. The revision was deemed necessary to replace the previous regulation in order to reflect current realities. As a result, cannabis—classified under the genus Cannabis, family Cannabaceae—is now subject to stricter domestic distribution controls, with an emphasis on its use for medical purposes only.