Dominican Republic

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

The Dominican Republic prohibits cannabis under Law 50-88, its comprehensive drug control statute. The country imposes strict criminal penalties for possession, sale, and trafficking of cannabis, with no legal exceptions for medical or recreational use. As a Caribbean transit point for South American drug shipments, the Dominican Republic prioritizes narcotics enforcement through its National Drug Control Directorate.

Ask the Expert about Dominican Republic

Regulator

National Drug Control Directorate

Key Legislation

Law 50-88 on Drugs and Controlled Substances

Year Legalized

N/A

Program Size

N/A — Prohibited

Key Facts

Simple cannabis possession can result in 6 months to 2 years imprisonment and fines under Law 50-88
Drug trafficking offenses carry sentences of 5 to 20 years imprisonment, with enhanced penalties for organized crime involvement
The DNCD (Direccion Nacional de Control de Drogas) conducts regular anti-narcotics operations and cannabis crop eradication programs
The Dominican Republic's Caribbean location makes it a major transit corridor for cocaine and cannabis shipments bound for the United States and Europe
Limited medical cannabis reform discussions have emerged in civil society, but no formal legislation has been introduced in Congress

Key Legislation

Law 50-88 on Drugs and Controlled Substances (1988)

Regulatory Body

National Drug Control Directorate (DNCD); Attorney General's Office; Ministry of Public Health

Country Info

ISO Code

Region

Caribbean

Tier

Tier 4 — Prohibited

Status

Cannabis — Prohibited

Sources

DNCD — National Drug Control Directorate

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.