Is Hemp Legal in Cyprus?

Industrial hemp is legal in the Republic of Cyprus when cultivated from EU-certified seed varieties with THC content at or below 0.2%. The Department of Agriculture under the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment licenses growers and conducts field sampling.

Farmers register hemp plots, submit seed certificates, and qualify for Common Agricultural Policy direct payments under Regulation (EU) 2021/2115. Cultivation remains modest at well under 200 hectares annually, focused on fiber and seed. Cannabinoid extraction is rare due to climate and the 0.2% threshold, and the Pharmaceutical Services enforce strict separation between hemp and licensed medical cannabis grown under the 2019 medical cannabis framework.

Crops testing above 0.2% THC must be destroyed at the grower's expense, and the operator forfeits CAP support. Repeat violations may trigger criminal liability under Law 29/1977.

This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Verify current law with qualified counsel before making compliance decisions.