Democratic Republic of the Congo
Is Hemp Legal in Democratic Republic of the Congo?
Status
Illegal
Covers
Jurisdiction
Last updated
May 29, 2026
The short answer
Industrial hemp is not authorised in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The Ministere de l'Agriculture has no licensing framework for Cannabis sativa L., and the 1971 narcotics ordonnance-loi captures all cannabis biomass regardless of THC content.
No public licensing initiative has progressed. The DRC's agricultural priorities centre on cassava, maize, palm oil, and coffee. Eastern-province conflict and limited regulatory capacity have prevented serious legislative debate on hemp reform.
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 ·
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Key facts
Rules at a glance
THC limit
Prohibited
Regulator
Ministere de l'Agriculture; DPM
Key regulation
Ordonnance-loi N degrees 71-079 du 26 mars 1971
Effective
March 26, 1971
Adult-use cannabis
Illegal
Medical cannabis
Illegal
For brands and importers
Import and export rules
Hemp import and export are prohibited. DGDA customs apply controlled-substance rules to all Cannabis sativa material. No commercial hemp trade is permitted.
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