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Cannabis — ProhibitedAsia-Pacific

Afghanistan

Medical cannabis is prohibited in Afghanistan. Severe criminal penalties may apply for possession, use, or trafficking.

Afghanistan has a long history of cannabis cultivation, particularly in southern and western provinces, but all production, sale, and use remain illegal. Under Taliban rule reinstated in 2021, drug enforcement is harsh and punishments are severe, though cannabis and opium poppy cultivation persist due to economic conditions and limited enforcement capacity in rural areas.

Ask the Expert about Afghanistan
Regulator
Taliban Ministry of Interior; formerly the Ministry of Counter Narcotics
Key Legislation
Counter Narcotics Law
Year Legalized
N/A
Program Size
N/A — Prohibited

Key Facts

  • Cannabis cultivation is widespread in provinces like Helmand, Kandahar, and Uruzgan despite prohibition, making Afghanistan one of the world's largest cannabis resin (hashish) producers
  • The Counter Narcotics Law prescribes imprisonment of 3 months to 1 year for personal possession and up to 10 years for trafficking
  • The Taliban issued a decree banning poppy and cannabis cultivation in April 2022, though enforcement has been inconsistent
  • Afghanistan's traditional hashish production predates modern drug laws, with cannabis deeply embedded in the agricultural economy of rural communities
  • UNODC surveys have consistently ranked Afghanistan among the top global producers of cannabis resin, with an estimated 1,400-3,400 hectares under cultivation annually

Key Legislation

Counter Narcotics Law (2005, amended 2010)

Regulatory Body

Taliban Ministry of Interior; formerly the Ministry of Counter Narcotics

Country Info
ISO Code
AF
Region
Asia-Pacific
Tier
Tier 4 — Prohibited
Status
Cannabis — Prohibited
Sources
UNODC — Afghanistan Drug Reports
Disclaimer: This information is for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Cannabis regulations change frequently. Always verify with official sources and local legal counsel before making compliance decisions.