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Cannabis and hemp laws
Zambia
Recreational cannabis illegal, medical limited; CBD illegal, hemp restricted
Adult use
Illegal
Medical
Legal
Last reviewed
May 29, 2026
Zambia
Cannabinoid status board
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Zambia
Latest news and analysis
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FAQ
Common questions
Is marijuana legal in Zambia?
Recreational marijuana is illegal in Zambia. The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act No. 35 of 2021, which repealed the former Chapter 96 framework, criminalises cultivation, possession, supply, and use of cannabis (chamba or insangu).
Is CBD legal in Zambia?
CBD is illegal for retail in Zambia. The Narcotic Drugs Act does not exempt cannabidiol, and the Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority (ZAMRA) has not registered consumer or pharmaceutical CBD products.
Is hemp legal in Zambia?
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.
Can you travel to Zambia with cannabis or CBD?
Recreational import and export are prohibited. CBD imports and exports are not authorised at consumer level.
This is general information, not legal advice.
Seed Legality
Licensed firms may import and multiply cannabis and hemp seed under Zambia's 2021 Acts; unlicensed dealing is criminal.
Hemp seeds
Restricted
Marijuana seeds
Restricted
Sale
Restricted
Transacting
Illegal
Gifting
Illegal
The Cannabis Act No. 33 of 2021 and the Industrial Hemp Act No. 34 of 2021 allow licensed cultivation, processing, distribution and export of medicinal cannabis and low-THC industrial hemp (not more than 0.3% THC, a definition that expressly includes viable seed). Hemp seed import, export and multiplication must comply with the Plant Variety and Seeds Act and the Plant Pests and Diseases Act, effectively requiring certified varieties. Outside these licences, cannabis and its seeds remain prohibited, with unlicensed cultivation on licensed hemp premises punishable by heavy fines and up to five years' imprisonment.
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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.