Narcotics Commission Opens Applications for Cannabis Cultivation Licences
The Narcotics Control Commission (NCC) has officially opened applications for licences for the cultivation and management of cannabis for industrial and medicinal purposes.
The move follows the launch of a national licensing regime introduced by the Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, on February 26, 2026.
Authorities say the initiative is designed to regulate cannabis-related activities while ensuring compliance with existing legal frameworks governing narcotics and controlled substances.
In a statement issued by the Commission, the decision forms part of the implementation of Section 43 of the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), as amended, together with Legislative Instrument 2475, which provides the legal structure for licensing cannabis cultivation, processing and related activities in the country.
According to the Commission, the regulatory framework permits the cultivation and processing of cannabis strictly for industrial and medicinal purposes under carefully controlled conditions.
The statement clarified that licences will only be granted for cannabis with a tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content of not more than 0.3 percent on a dry weight basis, in line with international standards governing industrial cannabis production.
The Commission explained that the programme is structured to support two major sectors: industrial production and medicinal development.
Under the industrial category, cannabis will be cultivated primarily for the production of fibre and seeds that can be used in manufacturing processes, including textiles, cosmetics and other industrial materials. The medicinal category, on the other hand, will support the development of pharmaceutical and health-related products derived from cannabis.
The Commission further announced that individuals and corporate entities interested in participating in the programme can submit applications under eleven different licensing categories.
These include licences for cultivation, processing, breeding, research and development, laboratory testing, storage, transportation, import and export, sales and distribution, as well as advertising and promotion of cannabis-based products.
To facilitate the process, the Commission has introduced a digital application platform accessible through its official website. Applicants are required to complete an online form, submit the necessary supporting documentation and pay a non-refundable application fee.
Officials say the licensing regime forms part of broader efforts by the government to build a transparent and accountable cannabis industry while safeguarding public health and safety.
The Commission added that the initiative is also expected to promote scientific research, encourage innovation and contribute to Ghana’s industrial and economic development as the country explores new opportunities in regulated cannabis production.
