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Cannabis — ProhibitedAsia-Pacific

Pakistan

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

Pakistan prohibits cannabis under the Control of Narcotic Substances Act (CNSA) of 1997, which classifies cannabis and its derivatives as controlled substances. Despite formal prohibition, cannabis (locally known as charas and bhang) has deep cultural and historical roots in Pakistan, with widespread cultivation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, and tribal areas.

Ask the Expert about Pakistan
Regulator
Anti-Narcotics Force
Key Legislation
Control of Narcotic Substances Act
Year Legalized
N/A
Program Size
N/A — Prohibited

Key Facts

  • Cannabis is prohibited under the Control of Narcotic Substances Act (CNSA) of 1997, which prescribes penalties ranging from 2 years to life imprisonment depending on the quantity involved
  • Pakistan is one of the world's largest producers of cannabis resin (charas/hashish), with major cultivation areas in the Tirah Valley, Dir, and parts of Balochistan
  • The Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF), established in 1995, is the primary federal agency responsible for drug interdiction and enforcement, operating under the Ministry of Narcotics Control
  • Bhang (a cannabis-infused drink) is consumed semi-openly during cultural and religious festivals, and enforcement against personal use varies significantly by region and local custom
  • In 2020, Pakistan's Senate briefly considered a bill to legalize industrial hemp cultivation, but the proposal did not advance; no medical cannabis legislation has been introduced

Key Legislation

Control of Narcotic Substances Act (CNSA), 1997

Regulatory Body

Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) and the Ministry of Narcotics Control

Country Info
ISO Code
PK
Region
Asia-Pacific
Tier
Tier 4 — Prohibited
Status
Cannabis — Prohibited
Sources
Anti-Narcotics Force Pakistan
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.