Pakistan promulgates law to regulate cannabis industry

ISLAMABAD: President Dr Arif Alvi has given his nod to the promulgation of the Cannabis Control and Regulatory Authority Ordinance 2024, a significant move aimed at regulating the cultivation, extraction, manufacturing, and sale of cannabis derivatives for medical and industrial purposes.

The ordinance, officially titled the Cannabis Control and Regulatory Authority Ordinance 2024, aligns with Pakistan’s commitment as a signatory to the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs 1961. It mandates the establishment of a government agency to oversee the cultivation and production of cannabis, in accordance with international conventions.

Under the ordinance, a dedicated authority, known as the Cannabis Control and Regulatory Authority, will be established to enforce the provisions outlined in the legislation. The authority will operate under the administrative oversight of the relevant division.

A 13-member board of governors, chaired by the secretary of the Defence Division, will be responsible for policy formulation and advising the federal government on all matters related to cannabis regulation. This board will include representatives from various government departments, the private sector, and intelligence agencies.

The board will hold the power to issue licenses for activities governed by the ordinance, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Additionally, the federal government retains the authority to convene meetings of the board as needed to address pertinent issues.

Furthermore, the ordinance stipulates the appointment of a Director-General by the Prime Minister, along with provisions for staffing, advisory roles, and consultations to facilitate the effective implementation of the legislation.

The federal government is mandated to develop and prescribe a comprehensive national cannabis policy, covering all aspects of cultivation, production, and trade, both domestically and internationally. Licenses will be issued for a five-year term, with a specialized committee overseeing the development of cannabis-derived drugs for various purposes.