Nepal

Is CBD Legal in Nepal?

Status

Illegal

Covers

CBD

Jurisdiction

Independent Country

Last updated

May 29, 2026

The short answer

CBD has no separate legal recognition in Nepal. The Narcotic Drugs (Control) Act 2033 (1976) treats cannabis derivatives as controlled substances without reference to cannabinoid composition. The Department of Drug Administration (DDA), under the Ministry of Health and Population, has not registered any cannabidiol pharmaceutical, and the Drug Act 2035 (1978) requires registration before marketing any medicine. Therapeutic claims for unregistered CBD are an administrative offence.

Travelers entering Nepal with CBD oils, gummies, or vapes should not assume that low-THC formulations will clear customs. The Department of Customs has discretion to seize CBD products labeled as cannabis derivatives, and ambiguity favors detention. Domestic CBD retail does not operate legally, and pharmacies do not dispense regulated cannabinoid medicines. Online imports through international postal services have been intercepted. Patients with neurological indications such as treatment-resistant epilepsy typically seek prescriptions abroad rather than rely on Nepalese pharmacies.

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 ·

Nepal

Key facts

Rules at a glance

All countries

THC limit

No CBD threshold - all cannabinoids treated as controlled

Regulator

Department of Drug Administration (DDA); Ministry of Health and Population; Department of Customs

Key regulation

Narcotic Drugs (Control) Act 2033 (1976); Drug Act 2035 (1978)

Effective

November 17, 1976

Adult-use cannabis

Illegal

Medical cannabis

Illegal

For brands and importers

Import and export rules

CBD imports are not licensed. The Department of Customs treats cannabidiol products as controlled cannabis derivatives. Exports are not authorized as no licensed production exists.

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