Thai farmers grow cannabis using aeroponic system amid plummeting prices

Thai farmers grew cannabis using aeroponic technology to address plummeting prices of the crop in the market.

An oversupply of the plant, coupled with uncertainties about its future legality, led cannabis prices to drop to less than 2,000 THB (45.45 GBP) per 2.2lbs (1kg) in August.

In response, farmers turned to new cultivation techniques to reach international markets with high-quality varieties.

Manufacturer Oriental Plantation Co Ltd in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, said prices for aeroponic-grown cannabis can reach up to 100,000 THB (2,274 GBP) per 2.2lbs when exported to Europe and Australia.

Apiban Sriyapai, Chief Executive Officer of Oriental Plantation, said: 'The European cannabis market, especially Germany which has the largest number of medical cannabis consumers there, is a primary target for Thai companies to export to.

'However, this market is highly competitive, and Thai companies must adapt to stringent regulations and standards, including obtaining certification from relevant international bodies.'

Thailand saw a surge of neon-lit cannabis dispensaries after the substance was decriminalised in June 2022 during former army general Prayut Chan-o-cha's leadership, with impoverished farmers hoping it would become a new cash crop.

However, government officials are now furiously backpedalling amid an explosion in mental health complaints and gaudy shops that have attracted an even lower class of holidaymakers than the country's infamous sex tourists - stoners.

Officials will now outlaw recreational cannabis, blaming poorly regulated use for allegedly fuelling drug abuse.

(1 GBP = 44 THB)