Cannabis laws in Barbados

Medical: early stages
Recreational: illegal

As of March 2023, cannabis is illegal for both recreational purposes in Barbados. The possession, cultivation, sale, and trafficking of cannabis are all illegal and punishable by law. While medical cannabis laws were introduced in 2019, the program is still in its early stages.

Under Barbados’ Misuse of Drugs Act, possession of cannabis carries a maximum penalty of $250,000 Barbadian dollars (approx. $125,000 USD) and up to five years in prison. The penalties for cultivation, sale, and trafficking are much harsher, with maximum penalties of life imprisonment and hefty fines.

Medical cannabis in Barbados

In 2019, Barbados introduced the Medical Cannabis Industry Bill, which legalized medical cannabis under strict regulations. Patients with certain medical conditions, such as multiple sclerosis and chronic pain, can obtain a prescription for medical cannabis from a registered medical practitioner.

However, the medical cannabis industry is still in its early stages, and the licensing process for cultivators, processors, and dispensaries is rigorous. The government has stated that it intends to strictly regulate the industry to ensure public safety and prevent abuse.

The future of cannabis in Barbados

There have been calls for the legalization of cannabis for recreational use in Barbados, particularly from the Rastafarian community, which uses cannabis as a sacrament. However, the government has not shown any indication of liberalizing its cannabis laws beyond the medical industry.

Bottom line on cannabis laws in Barbados

In conclusion, weed is illegal in Barbados for both recreational and medicinal use, with severe penalties for possession, cultivation, sale, and trafficking. While medical cannabis is legal under strict regulations, the industry is still in its early stages. It is important to be aware of the laws and potential consequences before using or possessing cannabis in Barbados.

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