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RestrictedAsia

Japan

Japan amended the Cannabis Control Act in December 2023 to allow cannabis-derived pharmaceutical products (specifically Epidiolex) while maintaining strict prohibition on recreational use. The revised law shifts from banning cannabis “use” to banning “possession with intent to abuse.”

Ask the Expert about Japan
Regulator
Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare
Key Legislation
Cannabis Control Act
Year Legalized
2023 (pharmaceuticals only)
Program Size
Limited to approved pharmaceutical pr...

Key Facts

  • The 2023 amendment allows specific cannabis-derived medicines for the first time
  • Epidiolex (cannabidiol) received import approval for treatment-resistant epilepsy
  • The revised law introduces criminal penalties for recreational use (previously only possession was penalized)
  • CBD products with zero THC are legal and widely available in Japan
  • Japan maintains some of the strictest cannabis laws among developed nations

Key Legislation

Cannabis Control Act (Revised December 2023)

Regulatory Body

Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW)

No documents yet

No regulatory documents available for this jurisdiction yet. We are expanding coverage — check back later.

Related jurisdictions

🇰🇷
South Korea
Medical — Legal
🇨🇳
China
Prohibited
🇮🇳
India
Prohibited
🇺🇸
Alaska
Adult-Use & Medical — Legal
🇺🇸
Arizona
Adult-Use & Medical — Legal
🇦🇺
Australia
Medical/Recreational — Legal
Country Info
ISO Code
JP
Region
Asia
Tier
Tier 3 — Restricted
Status
Restricted
Sources
MHLW — Cannabis Control
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.