Japan Reconsiders Its Stance on Cannabis
Since 1948, Japan has enforced the “Cannabis Control Act,” which stipulates up to five years in prison for possession of cannabis and up to seven years for cultivation. However, personal use is de jure decriminalized, as the presence of cannabis metabolites in the body does not carry legal consequences beyond public disapproval.
The Committee on Cannabis and Other Drugs, part of Japan’s Ministry of Health and led by Professor Tsutomu Suzuki, considers this a serious issue and is actively working on a comprehensive review of cannabis policy. The latest report was published on June 11.
Concerns Over Recreational Cannabis
The committee does not support the legalization of recreational marijuana, citing the experiences of the United States and Canada. In those countries, legalization has led to an increase in cannabis users and a rise in traffic accidents involving drivers with cannabis metabolites in their system. Additionally, studies show that cannabis can cause dependence syndrome, leading to abuse, memory impairment, cognitive decline, and the development of mental disorders.
Health risks and threats to public safety are not the only reasons for imposing additional sanctions against recreational cannabis. Another factor is its growing availability in Japan. In 2020, 5,273 people were involved in cannabis-related cases, compared to just 853 cases in 1972.
The committee believes that fines may somehow address this situation. Undoubtedly, a legal ban on use creates opportunities for drug-related crime. For example, mandatory population testing could be an effective measure. However, the report largely overlooks the ethical implications of such actions.
Medical Cannabis and Future Legislation
At the same time, the committee acknowledges that cannabis has beneficial pharmacological properties that could be used for medical purposes, such as treating epilepsy. The development of legal forms of medical cannabis use is still in its early stages. For now, the committee supports cannabis-based medications, which would require a license for production and import. The committee has also decided that Japan needs to establish a regulatory standard for THC concentration.
It remains unclear how authorities will distinguish between patients prescribed medical cannabis and recreational users.
The new version of the “Cannabis Control Act” is expected to be ready as early as 2022.