BANGKOK (NNT) – The Drugs Act of B.E. 2562 which was published in the Royal Gazette last February keeps cannabis and kratom off the drugs list, to allow them to be trialed for medical use. The Ministry of Public Health and the Ministry of Justice now plan to remove both types of plant from the drugs list…possibly permanently.

Deputy Prime Minister/Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Justice Minister Somsak Thepsuthin, have signed an agreement on cooperation to study the effects of both cannabis and kratom being removed from the drugs list. Both agencies will conduct an analysis of the effects on cannabis and kratom after they have been removed from the drugs list as well as compile relevant laws and academic data for submission to the government as legislation to remove cannabis and kratom from the drugs list. Measures and medical recommendations will be provided for proper control of these types of plant.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Tourism and Sports plan to promote Thailand as a Medical Hub with the second meeting of the directing committee for an international medical hub, approving six aspects of excellence in medical treatments which may draw the attention of foreigners and stimulate the national economy such as surgical beauty, transgender surgery, knee joints, cardiac systems, difficulties giving birth and dental care. Besides, Nuad Thai traditional massage which has been registered as Intangible Cultural Heritage will be upgraded to meet international standards.