Why It Matters: Japan’s recent legislative change marks a significant shift in its approach to cannabis, allowing the use of cannabis-derived medicines while tightening overall cannabis control.
The Big Picture: This move aligns Japan with other countries that have recognized the medical benefits of cannabis, reflecting a global trend towards reevaluating cannabis policies.
Key Fact: Japan’s new law permits the use of cannabis for medical purposes while imposing up to 7 years imprisonment for recreational use violations.
TOKYO, JAPAN. In a landmark decision, the Japanese Parliament has passed a law allowing the use of cannabis-derived medicines, marking a significant shift in the country’s stance on cannabis. This development is particularly noteworthy given Japan’s historically stringent approach to cannabis control.
Background on Cannabis Legalization Trends: Globally, there has been a growing trend towards recognizing the medical benefits of cannabis. Countries across Europe and North America have been at the forefront of legalizing cannabis for medical use. Japan’s recent legislative change indicates a similar acknowledgment of these benefits, albeit with a cautious approach.
Details of Japan’s New Cannabis Law: Under the new law, which will take effect within one year of its announcement, cannabis and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are classified as controlled substances. However, the law permits the use of cannabidiol (CBD) and other cannabis-derived products for clinical trials and medical treatments. This move is a response to patient groups’ demands for access to medically approved cannabis treatments, which are already available in countries like the United States and several European nations.
Strict Regulations for Non-Medical Use: While the law opens doors for medical cannabis, it also strengthens the regulations against recreational use. Possession and cultivation of cannabis for non-medical purposes remain illegal, with violations leading to severe penalties, including up to seven years of imprisonment.
Previous Stance and Recent Changes: Japan’s previous laws did not criminalize the use of cannabis, partly to protect farmers who might inadvertently absorb the plant’s substances while cultivating hemp for industrial purposes. However, growing concerns over the promotion of drug use among young people have led to this legislative revision.
Future Implications: The law introduces two types of licenses for cannabis cultivation: one for medical production and another for other purposes, such as industrial hemp. The changes related to cultivation will come into effect two years after the law’s announcement.
Source: Manager Online
