Aussie travellers warned as Thailand announces massive changes to its cannabis laws

The major development comes three years after Thailand became the first Asian country to decriminalise cannabis.

Australians have been urged to be cautious in Thailand after its health minister signed an order banning the use of cannabis, except for medicinal purposes, three years after decriminalising the act.

Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin announced on Tuesday that Thailand would be tightening its restrictions on the sale of cannabis, now requiring users to obtain a prescription first.

Thailand will criminalise cannabis unless for medicinal use. Picture: Lauren DeCicca/Getty Images

Smartraveller has urged Australians to “exercise a high degree of caution” when visiting Thailand, especially if using the substance.

“The use of cannabis is limited to medicinal purposes only,” the site read, adding it must be below 0.2 per cent in weight and users “must have a prescription”.

The Thai government order did not specify when the new law would come into effect and is yet to disclose the punishment associated with violating the law.

People may only use the drug if they have a prescription. Picture: Lauren DeCicca/Getty Images

The move comes three years after the Thailand government announced it would decriminalise the use and sale of cannabis, prompting an increase in tourism and a spate of cannabis-related shops.

Thailand was the first Asian country to decriminalise the use of cannabis however changed its tune after reports that addiction had increased.

“Cannabis will be classified as a narcotic in the future,” Mr Thepsutin said.

The Pheu Thai Party, which is in power in Thailand, announced it would scale back its decriminalised stance despite facing resistance from former coalition partner, the Bhumjaithai Party.

Last week, the Bhumjaithai Party cut ties with the Pheu Thai Party following a leaked phone call between Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and former Cambodian leader Hun Sen.

Originally published as Aussie travellers warned as Thailand announces massive changes to its cannabis laws