The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has directed all individuals, businesses, institutions and organisations dealing in precursor chemicals, psychotropic substances and controlled equipment to register with the Commission by July 31, 2026.
According to NACOC, the directive is backed by the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), which requires operators in the sector to obtain the necessary licences and authorisation before commencing or continuing their operations.
The nationwide registration exercise forms part of efforts to strengthen oversight of precursor chemicals, psychotropic substances and controlled equipment to ensure they are not diverted into the illegal manufacture of narcotic drugs.
The directive applies to entities involved in the importation, exportation, manufacture, production, distribution, wholesale, retail, sale, storage, transportation and brokerage of the regulated substances. It also covers laboratories, research facilities, industrial users and educational institutions.
NACOC further reminded already registered operators to ensure their licences remain valid and are renewed when due.
As part of the regulatory exercise, the Commission listed several categories of controlled equipment that require registration and monitoring. These include encapsulating and tableting machines, rotary evaporators, reaction vessels, mixers, condensers, separating funnels, high-capacity laboratory glassware, pill counting machines, pill polishers, punches and dies, as well as other equipment designated under the law.
The Commission explained that the registration regime is intended to promote the legitimate use of precursor chemicals, prevent their diversion into illicit drug production, enhance national security and public safety, and ensure Ghana complies with both domestic legislation and international obligations.
NACOC warned that any person or entity operating without the required registration, licence or authorisation will be in breach of the law and may face administrative, civil or criminal sanctions under Act 1019.
The Commission has urged all affected operators to begin the registration process immediately or regularise their existing status before the July 31 deadline.
