Vanuatu
Is Weed Legal in Vanuatu?
Status
Illegal
Covers
Jurisdiction
Last updated
May 29, 2026
The short answer
Recreational marijuana is illegal in the Republic of Vanuatu. Cannabis is a controlled drug under the Dangerous Drugs Act, Cap. 12, and the Vanuatu Police Force Narcotics Unit enforces possession, cultivation, supply, and trafficking offenses.
Penalties under the Dangerous Drugs Act include fines up to VT 100 million and imprisonment up to 20 years for trafficking, with lesser sentences for personal possession. The Medicinal Cannabis Act 2018 (Act No. 30 of 2018) established a licensing framework for medicinal cannabis cultivation and export, but adult recreational use, possession, and cultivation remain criminal. Bauerfield International Airport customs screens passengers from Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji.
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 ·
Vanuatu
Key facts
Rules at a glance
THC limit
Prohibited for recreational use
Regulator
Vanuatu Police Force Narcotics Unit; Ministry of Internal Affairs
Key regulation
Dangerous Drugs Act, Cap. 12
Effective
January 1, 1989
Adult-use cannabis
Illegal
Medical cannabis
Illegal
For brands and importers
Import and export rules
Recreational cannabis import and export are prohibited. Only Medicinal Cannabis Act licensees may handle cannabis biomass and products with permits. Vanuatu Customs screens all parcels and passengers at Bauerfield International Airport (Port Vila) and Pekoa International Airport (Espiritu Santo).
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