It’s been nearly a year since Thailand made global headlines for becoming the first Asian nation to legalize cannabis. The decision sparked widespread interest, not only for its potential health benefits for patients but also for its far-reaching impact on the Thai economy.
In this blog, we’ll take a look at how cannabis legalization has impacted the Thai economy and what this means for the future of the industry.
Thai Cannabis: A Growing Industry
Since Thailand decriminalized cannabis on June 9th, 2022, the industry has experienced rapid and expansive growth. Thailand has quickly become a hub for research and development, attracting local and international investors.
Economic Predictions for 2023 and Beyond
According to a 2022 survey conducted by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC), Thailand’s cannabis market is expected to grow by at least 15% a year between 2023 and 2025. The UTCC predicts Thailand’s cannabis market will grow to 31.8 billion baht in 2023, and up to 43 billion baht by 2025.
Rolling Stone writer Andrew Wilson predicts that starting in 2023, Thailand will become leaders in cannabis production, as well as industry trailblazers whose success or failure will be monitored closely by neighboring countries.
Increased Demand for Skilled Labor
Resulting from decriminalization, the Thai economy has seen a surge in job creation, with a growing number of businesses and industries emerging around the cannabis industry.
One such example is Phuket Original, whose wholesale cannabis production facility relies heavily on skilled local labor to keep their operation running smoothly. From plumbers and construction workers to electricians, soil experts and horticulturists, Phuket Original anticipates their need for skilled labor will rise from its current staff of approximately 50 over 100 full-time positions as production increases. With additional farms and dispensaries entering the market seemingly by the day, the future looks bright for skilled labor across Thailand.
Case Study: Mr. Kij the Electrician
Mr. Kij was a commercial/residential electrician for seven years with little exposure to cannabis before joining Phuket High in 2022. Kij said making the transition to supplying power for cannabis operations was easy. Cannabis will have many benefits for Thai society, Kij asserts, as long as there are clear regulations controlling where cannabis-related businesses can operate, to prevent abuse, and to prohibit access for school-age minors.
Key Players in Thailand’s Cannabis Market
Thailand’s emerging healthcare industry is responsible for much of the increased demand for locally-produced cannabis products and treatments, including research into CBDs. Read more about CBDs here.
According to a report by grandviewresearch.com, cannabis is projected to have the fastest compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 86.9% by 2030.
Businesswire.com anticipates Thai cannabis to have a CAGR of 61.4%.
This growth is driven by increased acceptance of cannabis consumption and awareness of its health benefits.
Thai Cannabis and Taxes
In addition to job creation, the Thai cannabis industry has generated a windfall of increased tax revenue for the Thai government. While specific taxation policies remain unclear, with the legalization of cannabis, the Thai government is now better positioned to regulate and tax the industry, resulting in increased revenue. This, in turn, has provided the government with more funds to invest in public services and infrastructure, further boosting the Thai economy.
Increased Agricultural Production
Thailand is revered for its rich agricultural heritage, and cannabis legalization has provided Thai farmers with a new cash crop to grow. This has led to an increase in agricultural production, as more and more farmers are now cultivating cannabis for research and commercial purposes.
More Mom-and-Pops
Thailand’s cannabis legalization has also provided new opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are the backbone of the Thai economy. SMEs are now able to invest in and innovate the cannabis industry, providing them a viable source of revenue and helping to promote economic growth.
Boosting Tourism
Thailand has been a top tourist destination for decades, and the legalization of cannabis has only added to its appeal. According to the Medical Tourism Association, in 2022, Thailand ranked 5th among the most popular health tourism destinations in the world.
As Thailand becomes a hub for cannabis research and development, it’s attracting a growing number of international tourists who are interested in learning more about the herb and its range of health benefits.
In addition to its tourist appeal, Thailand’s legal cannabis has created emerging opportunities for businesses related to the tourism sector. Cannabis-themed tours and events have become hugely popular, providing new revenue streams for local mom-and-pops. Take Phuket High Kata for example. Here you can attend weekly live performances, movie and trivia nights, as well as larger monthly events all with a cannabis theme.
In conclusion, the legalization of cannabis in Thailand has had an immediate and significant impact on the economy, both at the local and national levels. From job creation and increased tax revenue to boosting agriculture and tourism, the cannabis industry is proving to be a major player in the country’s post-COVID economic recovery. As the industry evolves and expands, it’s clear that the economic benefits of cannabis legalization will continue paying dividends for many facets of Thai society.
As our team continues to delve into this topic with local businesses, industry professionals, and government officials, we will keep this piece updated. Stay tuned for more from the ground in Thailand!
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