Cook Islands
Is Hemp Legal in Cook Islands?
Status
Illegal
Covers
Jurisdiction
Last updated
May 29, 2026
The short answer
Industrial hemp is illegal in the Cook Islands. The Narcotics and Misuse of Drugs Act 2004 controls Cannabis sativa L. without a low-THC carve-out, and no industrial hemp licensing scheme exists, in contrast to New Zealand's Misuse of Drugs (Industrial Hemp) Regulations 2006.
The Ministry of Agriculture has not opened a pathway for low-THC cannabis cultivation. Hemp seeds, fiber, hempcrete, and hemp foods cannot be lawfully imported. Cook Islands Customs treats hemp materials identically to cannabis at Rarotonga International Airport. While the Cook Islands shares many features of New Zealand law, the industrial hemp framework was not extended through the free-association relationship.
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 ·
Cook Islands
Key facts
Rules at a glance
THC limit
Prohibited
Regulator
Ministry of Agriculture; Cook Islands Police Service
Key regulation
Narcotics and Misuse of Drugs Act 2004
Effective
January 1, 2004
Adult-use cannabis
Illegal
Medical cannabis
Illegal
For brands and importers
Import and export rules
Hemp imports are prohibited. The Cook Islands has no industrial hemp licensing framework, distinct from New Zealand. Hemp seeds, fiber, and foods are denied entry by Customs at Rarotonga International Airport under the Narcotics and Misuse of Drugs Act.
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