Thailand is reversing its landmark decision to legalize cannabis, citing concerns over social problems like increased drug abuse. But the sudden policy shift has thrown the booming legal weed industry into chaos, with growers and sellers now fighting to stay afloat—or warning they’ll be forced underground.

Editor’s Note: Just two years ago, Thailand made history as the first Asian country to decriminalize cannabis, sparking a gold rush of legal weed businesses. Now, the government’s U-turn leaves thousands in limbo—showing how quickly political winds can shift, even for a growing global industry. For other countries watching, it’s a cautionary tale about the messy reality of drug policy reform.