Tonga
Is Hemp Legal in Tonga?
Status
Illegal
Covers
Jurisdiction
Last updated
May 29, 2026
The short answer
Industrial hemp is illegal in Tonga. The Illicit Drugs Control Act 2003 controls the entire Cannabis sativa L. plant without a low-THC carve-out, and no commercial hemp licensing scheme exists under the Tongan Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Forests.
Hemp seeds, fiber, hempcrete, and hemp-derived foods cannot be lawfully imported or cultivated. Tonga Customs applies the cannabis schedule to all Cannabis sativa material. Penalties under the Illicit Drugs Control Act include fines up to TOP 1 million and imprisonment up to 30 years for cultivation and trafficking.
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 ·
Tonga
Key facts
Rules at a glance
THC limit
Prohibited
Regulator
Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Forests; Tonga Police
Key regulation
Illicit Drugs Control Act 2003
Effective
July 25, 2003
Adult-use cannabis
Illegal
Medical cannabis
Illegal
For brands and importers
Import and export rules
Hemp imports are prohibited. No commercial industrial hemp license exists in Tonga. Hemp seeds, fiber, and hemp food products are denied entry by Tonga Customs under the Illicit Drugs Control Act, regardless of THC content or country of origin.
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