The Move Forward Party (MFP) plans to reinstate cannabis as a narcotic drug, while protecting its growers and sellers.

MFP deputy leader Sirikanya Tansakun said on Thursday that her party intends to relist cannabis as a narcotic, to allow police and officials to regulate its use.

The original goal of decriminalisation was to promote cannabis for medicinal use and as an economic crop. However, the lack of a law meant that recreational use has also flourished.

Authorities could not effectively control cannabis use because there had not been a law to control its use, cultivation, export and import after decriminalisation, she said.

"Operators and growers who comply with the rules will have their businesses protected," Ms Sirikanya said.

Once the new regulation comes into effect, there will be legislation in place to protect the lawful cultivation of cannabis, she added.

"We confirm that those who comply with the law will not be affected. Please rest assured," said the MFP member.

Relisting cannabis as a narcotic is a policy of the MFP, which won the most House seats in the May 14 general election.

Thousands of businesses have sprung up since the legalisation of cannabis consumption and growing, with many shops in Bangkok and other tourist areas offering weed to delighted tourists and local smokers.

The prospect of a new government relisting cannabis is making business owners nervous.

“Don’t put cannabis back in prison,” said the owner of the RG420 cannabis shop on Khao San Road.

The Move Forward policy is worrying pro-cannabis people, including the sort of progressive younger people who helped the MFP win on May 14.

“I thought they’re meant to move forward,” grumbled one cannabis farm owner and wholesaler.