Country profile · Asia-Pacific
Japan
A December 2024 amendment to the Cannabis Control Act allowed approved cannabis-derived medicines for the first time while introducing a criminal offence for use.
Adult-useNot legalPossession for non-medical use is an offence.
MedicalRestrictedLegal on paper, with access limited to a few approved products or special permits.
RegionAsia-Pacific
Last reviewedStatuses reviewed quarterly by our newsroom
The law in brief
A December 2024 amendment to the Cannabis Control Act allowed approved cannabis-derived medicines for the first time while introducing a criminal offence for use. Adult use remains strictly illegal.
Our classification for Japan: adult use not legal, medical cannabis restricted.
Adult-use: Not legalPossession for non-medical use is an offence.
Medical: RestrictedLegal on paper, with access limited to a few approved products or special permits.
Key dates and latest developments
Japan’s CBD Industry Recieves First Investments From Publicly Listed Companies Following Recent Reforms
CBD Market
Japan Releases More Details on Upcoming CBD Regulations, But Key Issues Remain Unaddressed
CBD Market
Japan Issues Update on New THC Limits in CBD Products Which Remain ‘Strictest in the World’
CBD Market
Japan Publishes Details of Newly Proposed THC Limits For Incoming Cannabis Market
CBD Market
