Country

Cannabis and hemp laws

Papua New Guinea

Cannabis illegal under the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (Chapter 228); CBD and hemp illegal

Adult use
Illegal
Medical
Illegal
Last reviewed
May 29, 2026

Papua New Guinea

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FAQ

Common questions

Is marijuana legal in Papua New Guinea?

Recreational marijuana is illegal in Papua New Guinea. Cannabis sits under the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (Chapter 228) as a prohibited dangerous drug, and the National Narcotics Bureau within the Department of Health enforces controlled substance policy alongside the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary.

Is CBD legal in Papua New Guinea?

CBD is illegal in Papua New Guinea. The Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 does not distinguish cannabidiol from other cannabis-derived substances, and no exemption exists for low-THC or THC-free CBD products under the National Department of Health's Medicines and Cosmetics Act 1999.

Is hemp legal in Papua New Guinea?

Industrial hemp is illegal in Papua New Guinea. The Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 controls the entire Cannabis sativa L. plant without an industrial hemp carve-out, and no licensing scheme exists under the Department of Agriculture and Livestock.

Can you travel to Papua New Guinea with cannabis or CBD?

Import and export of cannabis are prohibited under the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 and the Customs Act. CBD imports are prohibited.

This is general information, not legal advice.

Seed Legality

Cannabis is illegal in PNG under the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952; no hemp or seed exemption exists.
Hemp seeds
Illegal
Marijuana seeds
Illegal
Sale
Illegal
Transacting
Illegal
Gifting
Illegal

Papua New Guinea's Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 prohibits cannabis: cultivation carries up to 15 years' imprisonment and selling up to 20 years, while minor possession can bring fines or up to two years in jail. The Act makes no allowance for industrial hemp, so viable seed of any cannabis variety is unlawful despite periodic political discussion of licensed medicinal exports. Illicit highland cultivation nonetheless remains widespread.

Key law:
Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (PNG)
Last reviewed:
July 3, 2026
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This section is provided for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Seed laws change frequently — verify current law with qualified counsel before making decisions.