Public, private firms in Thailand can now apply to grow hemp

The Nation/Asia News Network

BANGKOK — Thailand’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will allow government agencies, private companies, farmers and the public to apply to grow hemp from January 29 after the Public Health Ministry removed the plant species from the category V narcotics list in November.

According to ministerial regulations, the import of hemp seeds for growing will be allowed within five years after being removed from the narcotics list.

“People can apply to grow hemp for any purpose – commercial, medical, educational, research or for traditional use,” said FDA vice secretary-general Supattra Boonserm.

“Hemp fiber and its oil extract are also allowed for use as material or ingredients in the textile, food and beverage, food supplementary, and cosmetics industries,” she said.

Supattra said candidates must apply in the area in which they wish to grow hemp. Bangkok residents can apply at the FDA’s head office, while residents in other provinces must apply at their provincial public health offices.