The Thai government approved on Tuesday amendments to the drug law allowing the private production and sale of marijuana for medical purposes, Reuters reported referring to a source in the Thai government.

In 2017, Thailand became the first country in the world to legalize marijuana for medical purposes, but in the past, only the government was allowed to grow it.

According to the government's office, based on the adopted amendments, the production, sale, export, and import of marijuana to patients, relevant enterprises, and doctors is also allowed.

The law will help the pharmaceutical industry and improve competitiveness, which will play an important role in propelling Thailand to a leading position in the production of medical cannabis, the country's health ministry said.

Soon the amendments will be sent to the country's parliaments for consideration.