Medical Cannabis Legislation Submitted In Türkiye
The cannabis policies and regulations in Türkiye, historically referred to in the West as ‘Turkey’, are somewhat complicated. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is strictly prohibited, and cannabidiol (CBD) is only legal in certain instances.
Still, the nation is home to an emerging cannabis industry, albeit a limited one. A measure was recently submitted to Türkiye’s Parliament that would expand the transcontinental nation’s use of cannabis to the domestic pharmaceutical industry.
“Türkiye has significantly expanded its industrial cannabis production over the past five years and is now poised to harness the plant’s medicinal benefits through a new health care regulation, aligning with global advancements in the field.” reported Hürriyet Daily News in its local coverage.
“Included in a legislative package recently submitted to the parliament, the regulation includes expanding the scope of cannabis cultivation to cover pharmaceutical and health care products, supplements and personal care items.” the outlet also reported.
In 2016, hemp cultivation became legal in 19 provinces in Türkiye for industrial purposes. Aspiring hemp producers must obtain the country’s Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Livestock permission before beginning operations. Hemp product permits are valid for a maximum of three years in Türkiye.
The modern push to boost Türkiye’s emerging hemp industry came in 2019 when the nation’s president, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, announced that the country would take steps to increase production. Türkiye was experiencing an economic crisis, and increased hemp production for medical cannabis product exports was established to try to address the problem, although the nation’s policies and regulations have remained limited.
Industrial hemp harvests are widely used for natural fiber components in Türkiye. Industrial hemp is also somewhat common in construction, textiles, the paper industry, and for biofuel. Domestic production has increased from a reported 280 tons in 2020 to more than 1,700 tons in 2024.
Pharmaceutical product imports like Sativex are permitted in Türkiye and can be prescribed for specific conditions. The recently submitted legislative proposal would help the nation’s industry produce its own products and reduce the reliance on pharmaceutical imports.
“Under the bill, medical cannabis products would be sold exclusively through pharmacies under government oversight, with electronic tracking systems ensuring supply chain integrity.” reported Türkiye Today. “The legislation aims to meet domestic demand for cannabis-based medicines while maintaining strict control mechanisms.”
“The country’s experience may serve as a model for other nations seeking to reform cannabis policies while maintaining strict drug control frameworks. The outcome of current legislative efforts will significantly impact Türkiye’s future approach to cannabis regulation and its role in the global medical cannabis market.” the outlet also reported.