The debate on the legalisation and regulation of cannabis (marijuana) is active all over the world.
Countries have set up laws and regulations for cannabis according to their own social, economic and medical needs.
This article provides a detailed overview of the current status and challenges of legalising cannabis at home and abroad.
National status and regulations
Regulation of cannabis in Japan.
In Japan, cannabis is strictly regulated by the Cannabis Control Law.
Possession, cultivation, importation and exportation are prohibited, with heavy penalties for non-compliance.
The use of cannabis for medical purposes is also not permitted.
Overview of the Cannabis Control Act.
| Possession and use | illegal |
| Cultivation and marketing | illegal |
| Medical use | Not recognised. |
Arguments against medical marijuana
Discussions on the legalisation of medical cannabis are ongoing in Japan.
Some medical experts and patient groups have claimed the usefulness of medical cannabis in pain management and the treatment of epilepsy, but legalisation has not yet been achieved.
Current situation and regulations abroad.
America
In the USA, cannabis regulation varies from state to state.
Many states have legalised medical cannabis, and some more have legalised recreational cannabis.
Under federal law, cannabis remains illegal, but state laws often take precedence.
Example of California.
| medical marijuana | legal |
| recreational cannabis | legal |
| Regulatory details | May possess up to 1 oz (28 g) over the age of 21 |
Canada
Canada legalised recreational cannabis nationwide in 2018.
This allows adults aged 18 and over to possess and use a certain amount of cannabis.
The government has established strict regulations to ensure sales and quality control.
Regulatory details
| medical marijuana | legal |
| recreational cannabis | legal |
| Regulatory details | Can carry up to 30 grams over the age of 18. |
Europe
Even in Europe, regulations on cannabis vary from country to country.
In the Netherlands, sales are permitted in ‘coffee shops’, while in Portugal penalties for personal use have been removed.
Dutch example.
| medical marijuana | legal |
| recreational cannabis | Coffee shops allowed to sell |
| Regulatory details | Private use is de facto permitted. |
Thailand
Thailand was the first country in Asia to legalise medical cannabis.
Medical cannabis use was approved in 2018 and home cultivation was permitted in 2022.
It is primarily used for medical purposes, while recreational cannabis use remains illegal.
Regulatory details
| medical marijuana | legal |
| Cultivation at home | Permitted (for medical purposes only) |
| recreational cannabis | illegal |
South Korea was one of the first countries in Asia to partially approve medical cannabis.
The use of medical cannabis was permitted under strict conditions in 2018.
Specifically, patients who meet certain medical conditions can use medical cannabis with government approval.
The use of recreational cannabis is strictly prohibited.
Regulatory details
| medical marijuana | Permitted under strict conditions. |
| recreational cannabis | illegal |
Challenges of cannabis legalisation
Public health concerns.
Legalisation of cannabis has led to an increase in its use, with particular concern over its impact on young people.
Health risks and addiction problems due to long-term use have been raised.
Regulatory and management difficulties
Proper regulation and control of cannabis, including quality control and monitoring of sales channels, is required.
Illegal markets must be curbed and legal markets must be fostered.
economic impact
Legalisation of the cannabis industry is expected to have economic benefits such as increased tax revenues and job creation.
On the other hand, problems due to over-commercialisation and increased market competition need to be considered.
social acceptance
Legalisation of cannabis involves social acceptance and cultural change.
Negative opinions still persist in many countries and progress on legalisation is expected to take time.
economic impact
Debates on the legalisation and regulation of cannabis are ongoing in many countries.
While taking into account the utility and economic benefits of medical cannabis, attention must also be paid to public health and social impacts.
Strict regulations are still in place in Japan, but future policy changes will be closely watched, taking into account international trends.
