Thailand customs arrests 40 travelers for illegal cannabis export

Thai customs officials have arrested 40 foreign travelers at Suvarnabhumi Airport for attempting to export cannabis flowers without authorization. Between October 1 and October 24, 2026, authorities seized 577 kilograms of cannabis with an estimated value of 5.8 million baht.

Among those detained, 11 were Indian nationals, seven were Chinese, and five were British. Other travelers apprehended included citizens from Canada, Spain, Portugal, and various countries across Europe and the Americas.

This surge in enforcement follows government directives to prevent Thailand from serving as a transit hub for international drug trafficking. Since the beginning of 2026, customs have recorded 517 arrests and intercepted over 10.6 tonnes of cannabis flowers.

Under current regulations, cannabis flowers are classified as a controlled herb intended strictly for medical purposes. Exporting these products requires specific permission, regardless of where the cannabis was legally purchased within Thailand. Violators face criminal prosecution and fines of 30,000 baht per kilogram.