Zambia
Is Hemp Legal in Zambia?
Status
Restricted
Covers
Jurisdiction
Last updated
May 29, 2026
The short answer
Industrial hemp and medicinal cannabis cultivation in Zambia are permitted under license. In December 2019 the Cabinet authorised the Ministry of Health to issue licenses for cultivation, processing, and export of cannabis for medical purposes. Implementing guidelines reside with the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Agriculture, and ZAMRA.
License fees reportedly run to USD 250,000 for cultivation and additional fees for processing and export, with annual renewal. Cultivation must be in secured sites, with seed-to-export tracking. The framework targets foreign buyers; no domestic retail pathway is open. Several Zambian licensees have begun cultivation in Lusaka and Central provinces. Hemp specifically (low-THC) sits under the same licensing umbrella as medicinal cannabis.
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 ·
Zambia
Key facts
Rules at a glance
THC limit
Set per license; export-grade only
Regulator
Ministry of Health; Ministry of Agriculture; ZAMRA
Key regulation
Narcotic Drugs Act, Chapter 96 (Ministerial licensing); 2019 Cabinet decision on medical cannabis
Effective
December 4, 2019
Adult-use cannabis
Illegal
Medical cannabis
Legal
For brands and importers
Import and export rules
Cannabis and hemp export from Zambia requires Ministry of Health licensing and a verified foreign buyer in a jurisdiction where the product is lawful. ZAMRA issues GMP certification. Imports of hemp seed for cultivation require Ministry of Agriculture and ZAMRA approval.
FAQ
Common questions
Latest