Advisory on the Abuse, Possession, Sale and Importation of Cannabis and Cannabis Products

           The Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) is aware of ongoing discussions in some countries on the safety and legality of products (including food) containing tetrahydrocannabinol[1] (THC) for recreational and medical use.

2.        In Singapore, cannabis is listed as a Class A controlled drug in the First Schedule of the Misuse of Drugs Act (MDA). The MDA prescribes stiff penalties for the trafficking, possession, consumption, and import or export of controlled substances, including cannabis and cannabis products.

3.        Under the MDA, any Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident found to have abused controlled drugs overseas will be treated as if he/she had abused drugs in Singapore. CNB conducts enforcement checks at Singapore’s checkpoints and will take action against those found to have consumed drugs overseas. More information on controlled substances and penalties prescribed under the MDA is available at Drugs and inhalants.

4.        Singapore’s comprehensive approach to tackling both drug supply and demand has allowed us to remain relatively drug-free. In 2017, the number of drug abusers arrested comprised less than 0.1 per cent of our population. Our drug control policies are also underpinned by evidence and research. A literature review conducted by the Institute of Mental Health experts affirmed the addictive and harmful nature of cannabis, and that it damages the brain. There is scant evidence of the safety and efficacy of long-term cannabis use. These findings corroborate our position that cannabis should remain an illicit drug.

CENTRAL NARCOTICS BUREAU

26 OCTOBER 2018

[1] THC is a known cannabinoid and is the most psychoactive chemical substance in cannabis.