Papua New Guinea
Is Weed Legal in Papua New Guinea?
Status
Illegal
Covers
Jurisdiction
Last updated
May 29, 2026
The short answer
Recreational marijuana is illegal in Papua New Guinea. Cannabis sits under the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (Chapter 228) as a prohibited dangerous drug, and the National Narcotics Bureau within the Department of Health enforces controlled substance policy alongside the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary.
Possession, cultivation, sale, and supply each constitute summary or indictable offenses. Section 3 of the Dangerous Drugs Act sets a maximum penalty of two years imprisonment or a K5,000 fine for general offenses, with trafficking offenses prosecutable under the Criminal Code. Despite proposals in 2019 and 2020 by NKM Group to develop a licensed medicinal cannabis sector under the Medical Marijuana Bill, no legalizing legislation has been enacted. The Highlands provinces, particularly Eastern Highlands and Western Highlands, remain significant illicit cultivation regions targeted by Operation Snake Oil and joint Australian Federal Police operations.
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
Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary; National Narcotics Bureau; Department of Health
Key regulation
Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (Chapter 228)
Effective
January 1, 1952
Adult-use cannabis
Illegal
Medical cannabis
Illegal
For brands and importers
Import and export rules
Import and export of cannabis are prohibited under the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 and the Customs Act. PNG Customs Service screens shipments at Jacksons International Airport in Port Moresby and the Lae and Madang seaports. Australian Border Force coordinates with PNG authorities on Torres Strait routes.
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