"Thailand's New Weed Laws Spark Asian Tourist Boom"
Originally Published 2 years ago — by The Associated Press
Thailand's de facto legalization of marijuana has attracted a wave of tourists from Asian countries where drug laws are strict, including Japan, Malaysia, China, and the Philippines. While many Asian nations still have harsh penalties for cannabis offenses, Thailand's cannabis industry has grown rapidly, with weed dispensaries becoming as common as convenience stores in some parts of Bangkok. The majority of customers in these shops are foreigners, and about half of them are first-time weed users. However, Asian tourists tend to be more cautious and discreet, preferring to smoke their purchases indoors due to fear of legal issues.