MOST marijuana shop owners in Pattaya are worried about a new announcement by the Public Health Ministry on controlling the herb and allowing for only medical purposes pointing out that some tourists travelled to the seaside city to access it legally, TV Channel 7 said this morning (June 25).
This TV channel’s reporters surveyed the atmosphere at weed shops in Pattaya and Chonburi area last evening after the announcement was made and found that many were still open and serving tourists as usual while others had chosen to close temporarily as they await clarity from the government.
Mr. Pranchai Chaiyamontri, secretary-general of the Pattaya Chonburi Medical Cannabis and Economy Entrepreneurs Club, said his club had asked for the opinion of over a hundred member shops in Pattaya and found that most of the entrepreneurs were concerned about the direction of the law and new control measures, especially in terms of distribution system, that remained unclear.
“Cannabis shop operators have invested a lot and are part of driving the economy of Pattaya City over the past three years. Some tourists have travelled to access cannabis legally,” Pranchai said.
He proposed that the government should accelerate implementing Cannabis Act to create a clear legal framework, not just rely on ministerial regulations that may affect the rights and freedom of entrepreneurs, as all club members had a valid licence.
He also called for measures to compensate as well as guidelines to help marijuana entrepreneurs while proposing that a cannabis sales zone be set up in tourist areas as well as taking into account patients who need cannabis for medical treatment.
“Don’t view cannabis business as a grey business, because many people invested legally and transparently. What should be considered are the rights and freedom of the people to access herbs, and the financial security of entrepreneurs who have families to support,” Pranchai said.
CAPTION:
A marijuana shop in Pattaya with sign in inserted image saying ganja not sold to those under 20 years of age plus pregnant and breastfeeding women. Photos: Naewna
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