Is Marijuana Legal in Macau?

Cannabis is illegal in Macau (Macao). Macau is an autonomous region on mainland China’s south coast, renowned for being the “Las Vegas of Asia,” as it is synonymous with gambling and tourism. Cannabis attracts a high price in Macau, making it an attractive market. Nearby Japan, Singapore, and Hong Kong also attract high prices for cannabis, making it a profitable port for illegal smuggling.

Medical Marijuana Laws in Macau

As cannabis is illegal in Macau, there are no medical marijuana laws in place in Macau. Even though the judicial system follows Portuguese civil law, interpretative and amending power over the Basic Law and jurisdiction over acts of state lie with the central authority.

Ultimately, this means that cannabis is illegal in Macau and can bring with it harsh penalties. Buying, selling, and smoking weed carry a maximum sentence of seven years in jail and a fine of HK$1,000,000 (USD $128,205), whereas cultivation or distribution face larger fines and 15 years or longer in prison.

What to Know About About Medical Cannabis in Macau

There is no medical cannabis available in Macau. You may potentially find some traditional Chinese medicines containing some form of hemp or cannabis in Macau, but this is likely to be rare.

CBD Is Also Illegal

Hong Kong has recently passed laws prohibiting the sale, possession, and consumption of cannabidiol (CBD). Mainland China has also criminalized CBD, even if it is derived from legal hemp crops. It is likely that Macau follows similar laws and prohibits CBD, treating it the same as cannabis.

Can You Grow Cannabis In Macau?

No, you cannot grow cannabis in Macau. Cultivating cannabis in Macau will likely bring severe penalties and fines if caught.

The Bottom Line

Cannabis is illegal in Macau, whether it is for medical use or otherwise. CBD is similarly illegal, and this is unlikely to change any time soon. If you plan on traveling to the area, keep your cannabis at home, even if you are a certified medical patient. Macau does not recognize medical marijuana cards from other countries.