At the end of last year officials in Thailand decided to approve of cannabis for medicinal purposes.

The rules surrounding cannabis activity are now expected to be loosened in the country, though there still would be some restriction over the plant and those using it to a certain extent.

officials have admitted that their drug war hasn't prevented the use of the drugs and they're marching forward with an unexpected alternative approach now.

Cannabis has a long history of being used for medicinal purposes in Thailand but they also have a long history now of filling up their prisons as a consequence of the failed war on drugs. Not only that, but there are tens of thousands who have lost their lives as a result too during the process.

There are some concerns surrounding the recently approved changes, fears that foreign firms will apply for patents. It's reported that a growing number of patent applications have already been received but critics say that the laws in Thailand shouldn't permit for the recognition of intellectual property on plant extracts.

Rushing Patent Applications...

It's been reported that the Thai Department of Intellectual Property or “DIP” as its also known has been rushing the inspection of cannabis patent applications that allegedly violate Thai laws.

DIP has been accused of corruption for allegedly proactively processing ineligible cannabis patents for consideration that would benefit transnational pharmaceutical conglomerates.

It's alleged that in doing so they've potentially sabotaged researchers in the country and cannabis development by considering these patents.

Critics have demanded that the patents be revoked before the new law takes effect. There are fears that the introduction of these patents will fuel a foreign corporate monopolization of the cannabis market in the region. So far, it's reported that several of these patents have been considered and are still pending though they allegedly violate standing rules on the prohibition of patenting plant extracts. If DIP doesn't drop these patents then they could potentially see a lawsuit over the matter.

Pics:
pic1 -Aliwak - Shutterstock
pic 2 Uio

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