Is Weed Legal in Guyana?
May 29, 2026
Marijuana is illegal in Guyana, but the 2021 amendment removed jail for under 30 grams. CANU enforces; cultivation still risks 5 years.
Marijuana is illegal in Guyana, but the 2021 amendment removed jail for under 30 grams. CANU enforces; cultivation still risks 5 years.
Recreational marijuana is illegal in Guyana, though reform efforts have softened penalties for small amounts. The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act of 1988 criminalizes possession, cultivation, and trafficking, and the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) enforces alongside the Guyana Police Force.
In 2021 the National Assembly passed the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) (Amendment) Act, removing mandatory custodial sentences for possession of up to 30 grams and replacing them with community service. Possession above 15 grams can still be charged as trafficking depending on prosecutorial discretion. Cultivation remains a serious offense punishable by up to 5 years and fines starting at GYD 30,000. Despite Caribbean regional reform pressure, full decriminalization has stalled and no medical framework has been enacted.
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Verify current law with qualified counsel before making compliance decisions.
Illegal
Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU); Guyana Police Force
Prohibited
Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act 1988; 2021 Amendment Act
Cannabis import and export are prohibited. CANU operates at Cheddi Jagan International Airport and the Lethem land crossing with Brazil. No medical or industrial licensing exists for cross-border trade.
