Taiwan

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

Taiwan maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy toward cannabis under its Narcotics Hazard Prevention Act. Cannabis is classified as a Category 2 narcotic, and penalties for trafficking can include life imprisonment or even the death penalty for large quantities.

Ask the Expert about Taiwan

Regulator

Ministry of Justice — Investigation Bureau; Food and Drug Administration

Key Legislation

Narcotics Hazard Prevention Act

Year Legalized

N/A

Program Size

N/A — Prohibited

Key Facts

Cannabis is classified as a Category 2 narcotic, the second-most severe classification in Taiwan's drug scheduling system
Manufacturing or trafficking penalties range from 7 years to life imprisonment; possession carries up to 3 years
Taiwan's Food and Drug Administration (TFDA) oversees scheduling while the Investigation Bureau handles enforcement
There is growing public discussion about medical cannabis, but no legislative proposals have advanced
Taiwan has no exceptions for medical, recreational, or industrial hemp under current law

Key Legislation

Narcotics Hazard Prevention Act (1998, amended 2020)

Regulatory Body

Ministry of Justice — Investigation Bureau; Food and Drug Administration (TFDA)

Country Info

ISO Code

Region

Asia-Pacific

Tier

Tier 4 — Prohibited

Status

Cannabis — Prohibited

Sources

Taiwan Food and Drug Administration

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.