Is Hemp Legal in Guatemala?

May 29, 2026

Hemp is illegal in Guatemala. Decree 48-92 makes no legal distinction between hemp and marijuana, and no industrial hemp licensing exists.

Independent Country

Guatemala

Cannabis & Hemp Overview

Hemp is illegal in Guatemala and not legally distinguished from marijuana under Decree 48-92. The Ley contra la Narcoactividad treats all Cannabis sativa varieties as a controlled substance, with no statutory THC threshold creating an industrial hemp exemption. There is no licensing framework for hemp cultivation, processing, or extraction, and the Ministry of Agriculture (MAGA) does not issue hemp permits.

Hemp seed and hemp protein products imported as food have circulated informally in some natural-food retailers, but customs clearance is inconsistent and shipments have been delayed or rejected at ports. The Ministerio de Salud has not authorised hemp seed oil as a regulated food ingredient, and labelling claims referring to cannabidiol or CBD are not permitted on consumer products without pharmaceutical registration.

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

Guatemala

Cannabis & Hemp Key Facts

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Legal Status of:  
Hemp (General)

Illegal

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Governing Body

Ministerio de Agricultura, Ganadería y Alimentación (MAGA); Ministerio de Salud

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Potency/ Product Limits

No legal hemp threshold

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Regulating Entity

Decree 48-92, Ley contra la Narcoactividad

Import Export Rules for the Country

Hemp imports are subject to seizure where products contain measurable cannabinoids. Hemp food and fibre imports require Ministerio de Salud and customs clearance, with no specific hemp licensing pathway.

Locations Cannabis / Hemp Legal FAQ's:

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Locations Cannabis / Hemp Legal FAQ's: