Central African Republic
Is CBD Legal in Central African Republic?
Status
Illegal
Covers
Jurisdiction
Last updated
May 29, 2026
The short answer
CBD is illegal in the Central African Republic. Law No. 97.003 treats cannabidiol derivatives as stupefiants without a THC threshold that exempts CBD products. The Direction de la Pharmacie, du Medicament et de la Medecine Traditionnelle, within the Ministere de la Sante Publique et de la Population, has not issued a marketing authorisation for any CBD pharmaceutical, supplement, or cosmetic.
Pharmacies in Bangui do not stock CBD oils, tinctures, or topicals. Travelers carrying CBD products through Bangui M'Poko International Airport risk seizure and prosecution under the 1997 narcotics law, regardless of the product's legality in the country of origin. There is no industrial hemp-derived CBD exemption, and humanitarian operations do not include a personal-use CBD allowance.
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Verify current law with qualified counsel before making compliance decisions.
Key facts ·
Central African Republic
Key facts
Rules at a glance
THC limit
No exemption; all CBD treated as cannabis
Regulator
Direction de la Pharmacie, du Medicament et de la Medecine Traditionnelle; Ministere de la Sante Publique et de la Population
Key regulation
Law No. 97.003 of 21 January 1997 on drugs and psychotropic substances
Effective
January 21, 1997
Adult-use cannabis
Illegal
Medical cannabis
Illegal
For brands and importers
Import and export rules
Personal and commercial import of CBD is not permitted. The Direction de la Pharmacie does not issue marketing authorisations for cannabinoid products, and Customs reject CBD consumer goods at port of entry. No export pathway exists.
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