Papua New Guinea
Is CBD Legal in Papua New Guinea?
Status
Illegal
Covers
Jurisdiction
Last updated
May 29, 2026
The short answer
CBD is illegal in Papua New Guinea. The Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 does not distinguish cannabidiol from other cannabis-derived substances, and no exemption exists for low-THC or THC-free CBD products under the National Department of Health's Medicines and Cosmetics Act 1999.
The PNG Pharmaceutical Services Branch has not registered any cannabinoid medicine, including Epidyolex. CBD oils, capsules, and topicals are treated as prohibited cannabis derivatives at the border. Travelers arriving from Australia, where CBD became Schedule 3 in 2021, have had products seized by PNG Customs at Jacksons International. Penalties mirror cannabis possession under Chapter 228.
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 ·
Papua New Guinea
Key facts
Rules at a glance
THC limit
Prohibited
Regulator
National Department of Health Pharmaceutical Services Branch; National Narcotics Bureau
Key regulation
Dangerous Drugs Act 1952; Medicines and Cosmetics Act 1999
Effective
January 1, 1952
Adult-use cannabis
Illegal
Medical cannabis
Illegal
For brands and importers
Import and export rules
CBD imports are prohibited. PNG Customs treats CBD as a Dangerous Drugs Act substance regardless of THC content. No personal medical import scheme exists; even Australian-prescribed CBD oils are subject to seizure on entry at Jacksons International Airport.
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