Japan Enacts Stricter Cannabis Laws with Severe Penalties

LOS ANGELES- Japan has recently implemented stringent measures against cannabis use, introducing penalties of up to seven years in prison for consumption. Previously, while possession and cultivation were illegal, personal use was not explicitly prohibited. This legal adjustment aims to address rising concerns about cannabis misuse, particularly among the youth.

Concurrently, the revised laws permit the use of cannabis-derived medicines, marking a significant shift in Japan’s approach to medical cannabis. Patients with specific conditions now have access to treatments that were previously restricted, aligning Japan with global trends recognizing the therapeutic potential of cannabis.

These developments reflect Japan’s dual strategy of maintaining strict control over recreational cannabis use while accommodating medical applications. The new regulations are set to take effect on December 12, 2024.