On the 11th, the Health and Welfare Committee of the Liberal Democratic Party gave the green light to an amendment proposal of the Cannabis Control Act, with its central focus being the legalization of domestically produced pharmaceuticals made from cannabis-derived components. As part of their concerted efforts to fortify measures against misuse, they are also gearing up to introduce new offenses related to cannabis use. The government, having secured the ruling party’s endorsement, is set to make a cabinet decision and present the proposal during the upcoming extraordinary session of the National Diet scheduled for the 20th.
The target date for implementing these changes is 2024.
Cannabis contains two key components: tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), known for its hallucinogenic effects, and cannabidiol (CBD), with minimal side effects and notable antiepileptic and anti-anxiety properties.
CBD is already in use as an antiepileptic medication abroad. In Japan, current legislation allows for clinical trials of pharmaceuticals based on well-structured implementation plans, and trials for CBD formulations developed by a British pharmaceutical company are already underway. However, their application in the field of medicine remains prohibited. Domestic medical professionals have been increasingly advocating for the lifting of the ban on CBD usage.
While existing Japanese laws prohibit the possession and cultivation of cannabis, there are presently no penalties for its use. Usage, especially among the younger population, has been on the rise, and the introduction of penalties is aimed at bolstering measures against misuse.
Reference: NIKKEI「大麻草原料の医薬品解禁へ 使用罪新設で乱用対策強化」
