Japan to Accept Public Comments on Cannabis Reform Bill

WORLD- The Japanese government announced on May 30 that it will begin accepting public comments on its cannabis reform bill, which includes potential measures to loosen restrictions on processing CBD in food products. This move follows a proposal from the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare (MHLW) in February to establish a maximum residue limit for THC in cannabis-derived products to prevent health hazards.

Yves Antoniazzi, managing director of AstraSana Holding AG, highlighted the significance of this development, stating that Japan’s potential approval of CBD in food products could greatly expand the market. The public comment period will last until mid to late June.

Japan’s journey towards cannabis reform began in May 2022 with discussions on medical cannabis legalization. Significant legislative changes occurred in 2023, including amendments to the decades-old Cannabis Control Law and reclassification of cannabis under the Narcotics Control Law. These changes lifted the ban on cannabis-based pharmaceutical products but introduced stricter penalties for illegal use.

A recent Euromonitor report projects rapid growth in Japan’s cannabis market, with an expansion from JPY 4 billion (USD 26.3 million) in 2019 to JPY 24 billion (USD 173.8 million) in 2023. This growth is driven by increased demand for products promoting relaxation, sleep improvement, and stress relief.

Despite these legal reforms, cannabis-related criminal cases have risen. In 2023, 6,482 people were investigated for cannabis-related activities, a significant increase from 5,702 in 2022. The National Police Agency noted a rise in youth involvement, attributing it to widespread smartphone use and misinformation about cannabis.

Efforts to curb youth involvement in cannabis use include collaborations with companies like Capcom, which has implemented crime prevention campaigns using popular video game characters. Japan’s historical use of hemp in cultural and religious practices continues to influence its modern approach to cannabis.

Overall, the upcoming public comment period and legislative changes indicate a pivotal moment for Japan’s cannabis industry, with potential implications for market growth and regulatory developments.