UK Reports 90% Reduction in Mail-Order Cannabis Imports from Thailand

LOS ANGELES- The United Kingdom has reported a 90% decrease in cannabis shipments arriving by mail from Thailand during the first quarter of 2025. This significant decline follows enhanced cooperation between UK and Thai authorities aimed at curbing illicit cannabis trafficking.​

The reduction is attributed to a bilateral agreement that introduced stricter pre-shipment inspections in Thailand. Under the new protocols, parcels destined for the UK are subject to rigorous screening by Thai customs officials before departure. Despite these measures, UK Border Force detected 1.5 tonnes of cannabis entering the country through postal services between January and March 2025. ​

The surge in mail-order cannabis imports from Thailand had been linked to the country’s decriminalization of cannabis in 2022. In response, UK authorities launched Operation Chaophraya in July 2024, a collaborative initiative involving the Home Office, Border Force, and the National Crime Agency (NCA). The operation focuses on intercepting cannabis shipments and dismantling associated criminal networks. ​

As part of these efforts, over 50 British nationals have been arrested in Thailand for attempting to smuggle cannabis since the operation’s inception. Additionally, more than two tonnes of cannabis, valued at approximately £6 million, were surrendered by air passengers in February 2025. Thai customs officials have also intensified border screenings, resulting in the interception of over 800 cannabis smugglers and the seizure of nine tonnes of cannabis between October 2024 and March 2025.

UK Citizenship and Migration Minister Seema Malhotra praised the joint efforts, stating that the enhanced checks have “slashed cannabis smuggling in the post by 90% in just three months.” She emphasized the importance of international collaboration in disrupting organized crime and protecting communities.

Phil Douglas, Director General of Border Force, highlighted the agency’s commitment to international partnerships, noting that their work extends beyond national borders to prevent illicit goods from reaching the UK. He affirmed the continued use of advanced intelligence and record-setting drug seizures as part of their strategy to secure the nation’s borders. ​

The recent decline in mail-order cannabis imports underscores the effectiveness of coordinated international enforcement actions in addressing cross-border drug trafficking.