Is Weed Legal in Taiwan?

Last reviewed: August 6, 2026

Recreational cannabis is illegal in Taiwan and classified as a Category 2 controlled drug under the Statute for Narcotics Hazard Prevention (毒品危害防制條例). Use carries up to three years' imprisonment, possession up to two years, and manufacturing, transporting, or selling cannabis carries life imprisonment or a fixed term of at least ten years. The Ministry of Justice and the National Police Agency lead enforcement, with the Food and Drug Administration (TFDA) classifying scheduled substances.

Taiwan operates a strict nationality-based jurisdiction in practice: citizens who consume cannabis abroad and return showing positive drug tests have been prosecuted under Article 10 of the Statute. Customs at Taoyuan International Airport conduct routine screening, and consumer cannabis products purchased legally overseas — including edibles and vapes — are subject to seizure and criminal investigation. There is no decriminalised personal-use threshold.

This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Verify current law with qualified counsel before making compliance decisions.