From Prohibition to Controlled Access: Understanding Japan’s Cannabis Law Reforms
June 1, 2025
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I. Introduction: Why This Matters Now[1]
Japan has long maintained some of the strictest cannabis regulations in the world. Under the Cannabis Control Act, enacted in 1948, possession, cultivation, and transfer of cannabis have been criminal offenses, and enforcement has historically focused on prohibiting almost all non-industrial uses. Recreational use remains entirely prohibited, and criminal penalties are severe by international standards.
Two recent legal amendments in 2024 and 2025 mark a major reform of Japan’s cannabis regulatory framework. These amendments introduce criminal penalties for use itself, shift the legal focus from regulating plant parts to controlling products based on tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content, and establish new licensing systems for cultivation. At the same time, they open a narrow legal pathway for the use of cannabis-derived medicines in strictly defined medical contexts.
For overseas companies in the pharmaceutical, wellness, cosmetics, and industrial hemp sectors, these changes are both a signal of potential market openings and a warning of heightened compliance obligations. While Japan is cautiously introducing channels for medical and industrial cannabis products, its legal framework continues to prioritize public health safeguards and strict law enforcement. Businesses seeking to enter or expand in the Japanese market will need to navigate this dual reality with precision and rigorous adherence to regulatory requirements.
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[1] This communication is provided as a service to our clients and friends and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to create an attorney-client relationship or constitute an advertisement, a solicitation, or professional advice as to any particular situation.