El Salvador

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

El Salvador prohibits all forms of cannabis under its anti-drug legislation. The country maintains severe penalties for drug offenses as part of its broader hardline approach to crime and public security. Under the current administration, drug enforcement has intensified alongside the state of exception targeting gangs, leaving no political space for cannabis reform.

Ask the Expert about El Salvador

Regulator

Comision Nacional Antidrogas

Key Legislation

Ley Reguladora de las Actividades Relativas a las Drogas

Year Legalized

N/A

Program Size

N/A — Prohibited

Key Facts

Cannabis possession for personal use can result in 1 to 3 years imprisonment under Salvadoran drug law, with no legal threshold for personal quantities
Drug trafficking offenses carry sentences of 10 to 15 years imprisonment, with enhanced penalties for organized trafficking or involvement of minors
El Salvador's ongoing state of exception (since 2022) has expanded law enforcement powers, further tightening drug enforcement across the country
The Comision Nacional Antidrogas (CNA) coordinates national drug policy, prevention, and international cooperation with the DEA and UNODC
There are no active legislative proposals or significant advocacy movements for cannabis reform in El Salvador

Key Legislation

Ley Reguladora de las Actividades Relativas a las Drogas (Legislative Decree No. 153, 2003)

Regulatory Body

Comision Nacional Antidrogas (CNA); Attorney General's Office; National Civil Police (PNC)

Country Info

ISO Code

Region

LATAM

Tier

Tier 4 — Prohibited

Status

Cannabis — Prohibited

Sources

Comision Nacional Antidrogas (CNA)

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.