The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has announced the opening of applications for the cultivation and management of cannabis for industrial and medicinal purposes, a move authorities say marks an important step toward establishing a regulated cannabis industry in the country.
The development follows the official launch of the national cannabis licensing regime on February 26, 2026, by the Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak.
In a statement issued on March 11, the Commission explained that the new licensing process is being implemented under Section 43 of the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), as amended, together with Legislative Instrument 2475, which sets out the legal framework governing cannabis-related activities.
According to the Commission, the framework permits the cultivation and processing of cannabis strictly for industrial and medicinal purposes under tightly regulated conditions.
“In strict accordance with the law, licenses are exclusively for cannabis with a THC content of not more than 0.3% on a dry weight basis,” part of the statement read.
Authorities explained that the programme is designed to support two key areas of development.
Under the industrial category, cannabis will be cultivated mainly for fibre and seeds that can be used in manufacturing and other commercial applications. The medicinal component, on the other hand, is intended to support the development of pharmaceutical and health-related products.
The Commission further stated that applicants — both individuals and corporate entities — can apply under eleven licensing categories. These include cultivation, processing, breeding, research and development, laboratory testing, storage, transportation, import, export, sales and distribution, as well as advertising and promotion.
To make the application process more efficient, the Commission has introduced a digital system through which interested applicants can submit their requests online.
Applicants are expected to complete an online application form, upload the required documents and pay a non-refundable processing fee.
The Commission said the licensing regime forms part of broader efforts to build a transparent and well-regulated cannabis industry in Ghana while ensuring that public health and safety remain protected.
Officials also believe the initiative could encourage innovation and support the country’s broader industrial growth agenda.
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