Sao Tome and Principe
Is Hemp Legal in Sao Tome and Principe?
Status
Illegal
Covers
Jurisdiction
Last updated
May 29, 2026
The short answer
Industrial hemp is illegal in Sao Tome and Principe. Law No. 7/2008 covers all cannabis varieties without distinguishing low-THC industrial hemp. The Ministerio da Agricultura e Desenvolvimento Rural has not licensed hemp cultivation; cocoa, coffee, and pepper remain the priority export crops under the country's agricultural policy.
No commercial hemp cultivation, fibre processing, or hempseed-food production is permitted. Imports of hemp seed, fibre, or finished goods are treated as controlled-cannabis imports absent a specific exemption, which has not been issued. There is no legislative proposal to create a hemp regime.
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 ·
Sao Tome and Principe
Key facts
Rules at a glance
THC limit
No legal hemp threshold; all cannabis cultivation prohibited
Regulator
Ministerio da Agricultura e Desenvolvimento Rural; Direccao das Alfandegas
Key regulation
Lei No. 7/2008
Effective
July 27, 2008
Adult-use cannabis
Illegal
Medical cannabis
Illegal
For brands and importers
Import and export rules
Hemp imports and exports are prohibited. Customs treats all Cannabis sativa material as controlled under Law No. 7/2008, with no industrial-hemp exemption.
FAQ
Common questions
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