Phuket scrambles to contain cannabis fallout

LOCAL OFFICIALS and business leaders in Phuket are calling for urgent measures to address the island's growing cannabis problem, warning that unchecked recreational use is driving away family tourists and harming the province's international reputation.

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Phuket Vice Governor Adul Chuthong chaired a multi-agency meeting at Phuket Provincial Hall on June 19 to address issues raised during an earlier Senate inspection, including illegal cannabis sales, foreign nominee businesses, and unregistered migrant workers.

The meeting, attended by Senator Prinya Wongcherdkwan, police, and public health officials, followed a Senate working group’s visit on April 25, which found widespread cannabis use in public spaces, especially in Patong.

Complaints from tourists and residents have since increased, with many reporting discomfort from cannabis smoke and concerns about cannabis-laced food products, such as cookies and jellies, being sold near family areas.