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Cannabis legislation in Japan is known for its stringent and uncompromising stance, with laws heavily prohibiting both recreational and medicinal use. As of 2023, these laws remain largely unchanged. This article provides insight into the legal situation, the minor allowances for certain cannabis-derived products, and the historical context of cannabis in Japan. Current Cannabis RegulationsIn contrast to the global trend of relaxing cannabis laws, Japan has chosen to maintain and even reinforce its existing prohibitions. The Cannabis Control Act, enacted in 1948, classifies cannabis as a narcotic drug, putting it in the same level as heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine. This legislation delivers heavy penalties for possession, cultivation, sale, and transportation of cannabis. Offenders could face up to five years imprisonment and a fine of up to 30 million yen (approximately $260,000). Particularly severe offenses, such as those involving large quantities or organized crime, may attract penalties of up to 10 years imprisonment and fines reaching 50 million yen (around $430,000). Even the usage of cannabis can lead to a 5-year prison term & a fine of up to 5 million yen (approximately $43,000). Medical Cannabis and CBD Products in JapanDespite these stringent laws, Japan has made some concessions for certain cannabis-derived substances. For instance, in 2019, Japan approved clinical trials for Epidiolex, a medicine derived from cannabis used to treat severe forms of childhood epilepsy. Furthermore, in 2020, Japan allowed the importation and sale of CBD products that contain no THC and are not made from cannabis flower. These products, made from hemp stems and entirely THC-free, are legally permitted in Japan. Historical Context of Cannabis in JapanDespite the current prohibitions, cannabis has a long and diverse history in Japan. Introduced to the country by Buddhist monks from China in the 6th century, cannabis was employed in a variety of ways, from religious rituals and medicinal treatments to recreational consumption and industrial production.Cannabis cultivation was widespread in Japan until the late 19th century, when Western influences during the Meiji Restoration led to a decline in traditional hemp industries. With the introduction of the Cannabis Control Act in 1948, under pressure from US occupation forces, cannabis was officially prohibited in Japan. The situation of cannabis in Japan illustrates the country's stringent approach to drug policy, significantly contrasting the global trend towards decriminalization and legalization. Although there have been some allowances for specific cannabis-derived medical products, the overarching prohibitions remain strong. The future of cannabis laws in Japan remains uncertain as the world continues to evolve its views on the plant. Source: 1. [Cannabis in Japan - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabis_in_Japan) 2. [Key Trends for Cannabis in Japan: New Regulation and New Opportunities in 2023](https://www.euromonitor.com/article/key-trends-for-cannabis-in-japan-new-regulation-and-new-opportunities-in-2023) |