Phuket, Thailand’s premier island destination, is witnessing a growing challenge to its vital tourism sector, with businesses reporting that the widespread visibility and use of cannabis are negatively impacting visitor numbers, particularly within the lucrative family travel segment.
The concerns surfaced prominently at a meeting on Thursday, June 19, 2025, where local officials convened with private sector representatives to address mounting public complaints regarding recreational cannabis use in key tourist areas such as Patong.
Mounting Concerns from the Ground
Residents and businesses voiced significant apprehensions during the session. Key among these were complaints about the pervasive presence of cannabis smoke in public spaces, disrupting the family-friendly atmosphere that Phuket seeks to cultivate. Furthermore, the unfettered sale of cannabis-infused food products, including items like cookies and brownies readily available in tourist zones, was highlighted as a serious risk, raising fears about potential accidental consumption and harm to children.
Private sector stakeholders underscored the urgency of the situation, proposing that authorities implement enhanced control measures over cannabis distribution and consumption. A central suggestion was the designation of limited, specific areas where cannabis use might be permitted, thereby restricting its visibility and accessibility in general public spaces frequented by families.
Impact on International Perception
The Phuket Tourist Association has relayed sobering feedback from the global market. According to the association, international tour agents are increasingly associating Thailand with high levels of cannabis availability and use. This perception is proving to be a significant deterrent for certain demographics, most notably families travelling with children, who may seek destinations with a more conservative or regulated environment regarding substances.
This shift in international perception poses a direct threat to Phuket’s appeal as a safe and suitable destination for all types of travelers, potentially eroding a key segment of its visitor base that values a family-oriented holiday experience.
The Scale of Availability
The scale of cannabis availability on the island underlines the challenge. Data from the provincial public health office indicates a substantial number of licensed cannabis outlets operating across Phuket. As of the latest figures, there are 1,495 cannabis shops registered province-wide.
The distribution highlights their concentration in tourist and population centers: 752 shops are located in Muang district, which includes Phuket Town and surrounding areas; 520 are situated in Kathu district, home to popular beaches like Patong; and 223 are found in Thalang district, encompassing the airport area and northern beaches. This widespread availability contributes significantly to the visibility and public use that has become a source of complaint.
Thailand’s Decriminalization Context
Thailand made history in 2022 by becoming the first country in Asia to decriminalize cannabis. The move was initially framed with a focus on medical and health benefits, as well as economic opportunities. However, the rapid proliferation of dispensaries and the widespread public use for recreational purposes have created significant regulatory challenges that the government has been grappling with since the change in law.
The lack of clear, comprehensive regulations governing public consumption and sales has led to the current situation in tourist hotspots like Phuket, where the economic benefits hoped for from decriminalization are now potentially being offset by negative impacts on the crucial tourism sector.
Charting a Path Forward
The discussions between local officials and the private sector on Thursday, June 19, 2025, signal a recognition of the problem at a governmental level. However, finding a regulatory framework that balances personal freedoms or economic opportunities with the need to protect the island’s image and appeal to all tourists, especially families, remains a complex task.
The proposals from the private sector, focusing on enhanced control and designated use areas, represent potential steps towards mitigating the negative impacts currently being reported. The success of Phuket’s tourism recovery and long-term sustainability may well depend on the authorities’ ability to effectively regulate cannabis use in a manner that restores comfort and confidence for all visitors.
