Cannabis in Pakistan!!

Pakistan has taken significant steps toward legalizing cannabis for medicinal and industrial purposes. Here’s an overview of the recent developments:

Establishment of the Cannabis Control and Regulatory Authority (CCRA):

• In February 2024, President Arif Alvi approved the “Cannabis Control and Regulatory Authority Ordinance 2024,” leading to the creation of the CCRA. This authority is responsible for overseeing the cultivation, extraction, processing, and sale of cannabis derivatives for medical and industrial applications.
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Legislative Progress:

• By May 2024, the National Assembly passed the “Cannabis Control and Regulatory Authority Act, 2024,” which extends across Pakistan and came into effect immediately upon receiving the president’s assent. This act provides a regulatory framework for the cannabis industry, aiming to generate government revenue through taxation and promote the development of supply chains for industrial and medicinal cannabis.
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Economic Potential:

• Government estimates suggest that Pakistan has approximately 28,000 hectares (70,000 acres) suitable for legal cannabis cultivation. This initiative is projected to boost the economy, with potential export revenues of up to $7 billion annually.
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Regulatory Framework:

• The CCRA is tasked with issuing licenses, setting quality controls, and ensuring compliance within the cannabis industry. Licenses are expected to be valid for five-year periods, with a maximum harvest threshold of 0.3% THC enforced.
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It’s important to note that while cannabis has been legalized for specific uses, recreational use remains illegal. The government’s focus is on harnessing the medicinal and industrial potential of cannabis to stimulate economic growth and provide alternative medical treatments.

In Pakistan, the legal landscape for medical cannabis is evolving. In February 2024, President Arif Alvi approved the Cannabis Control and Regulatory Authority Ordinance 2024, establishing the Cannabis Control and Regulatory Authority (CCRA) to oversee the cultivation, extraction, refining, manufacturing, and sale of cannabis derivatives for medicinal and industrial purposes.

By May 2024, the National Assembly passed the Cannabis Control and Regulatory Authority Act, 2024, further solidifying the regulatory framework for medical cannabis in the country.

However, as of now, the CCRA is still in the process of developing comprehensive guidelines and regulations for the distribution and prescription of medical cannabis products. This means that medical cannabis is not yet available for patient use, and healthcare providers do not have a standardized system for prescribing these products.

Steps to Obtain Medical Cannabis in the Future:

Once the regulatory framework is fully established and medical cannabis products become available, patients seeking medical cannabis in Pakistan will likely need to follow these steps:

1. Consult a Licensed Healthcare Provider: Discuss your medical condition with a doctor who is authorized to prescribe medical cannabis. They will assess whether medical cannabis is an appropriate treatment option for you.

2. Obtain a Prescription: If deemed suitable, the healthcare provider will issue a prescription specifying the type and dosage of medical cannabis required.

3. Purchase from Authorized Dispensaries or Pharmacies: With a valid prescription, you will be able to acquire medical cannabis products from licensed dispensaries or pharmacies approved by the CCRA.

Current Legal Status:

It’s important to note that, despite legislative advancements, medical cannabis is not yet legally accessible to patients. Possession, use, or distribution of cannabis without proper authorization remains illegal and can result in severe penalties.

Recommendations:

• Stay Informed: Keep abreast of updates from official government sources or reputable news outlets regarding the availability and legal status of medical cannabis.

• Consult Healthcare Professionals: Engage with licensed medical practitioners to explore current legal treatment options for your condition.

As the situation develops and the CCRA finalizes the necessary regulations, access to medical cannabis in Pakistan is expected to become more structured and legally compliant.