Somalia

Is CBD Legal in Somalia?

Status

Illegal

Covers

CBD

Jurisdiction

Independent Country

Last updated

May 29, 2026

The short answer

CBD is illegal in Somalia. The Penal Code does not distinguish cannabidiol from other cannabis derivatives, and the Federal Ministry of Health has not established a pharmaceutical regulatory authority with capacity to register novel cannabinoid medicines.

No low-THC threshold or medical exemption applies. The National Medicines Regulatory Authority remains in formative stages, and most pharmaceutical procurement runs through UNICEF, WHO, and donor channels into the Essential Medicines List. Cannabinoid medicines such as Epidyolex and Sativex are not registered, and informal imports face customs and security-actor scrutiny. Practical guidance requires qualified counsel given fragmented governance.

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 ·

Somalia

Key facts

Rules at a glance

All countries

THC limit

Prohibited

Regulator

Federal Ministry of Health; National Medicines Regulatory Authority (formative)

Key regulation

Penal Code Legislative Decree No 5/1962

Effective

December 16, 1962

Adult-use cannabis

Illegal

Medical cannabis

Illegal

For brands and importers

Import and export rules

CBD imports and exports are not authorised. Somali Customs Authority and Federal Member State customs offices treat CBD shipments as controlled-substance imports. Pharmaceutical CBD products are not registered with any Somali authority.

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