The Narcotics Control Commission has officially opened applications for the cultivation and management of cannabis for industrial and medicinal purposes, marking what authorities describe as a significant step toward developing a regulated cannabis industry.

The move follows the launch of the national licensing regime on February 26, 2026, by the Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed‑Mubarak.

In a statement issued on March 11, the Commission said the decision implements Section 43 of the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), as amended, alongside Legislative Instrument 2475, which provides the legal framework for licensing cannabis activities in the country.

According to the Commission, the regime allows the cultivation and processing of cannabis strictly for industrial and medicinal purposes under 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.

The Commission said the programme is designed to support two main sectors, including industrial production and medicinal development.

It said the Industrial use will focus on the production of fibre and seeds for manufacturing purposes, while medicinal use will support the development of pharmaceutical and health-related products.

The Commission announced that interested individuals and corporate entities can apply under eleven licensing categories, including cultivation, processing, breeding, research and development, laboratory testing, storage, transportation, import, export, sales and distribution, as well as advertising and promotion.

To streamline the process, the Commission has introduced a digital application system accessible through its official website.

Applicants are required to complete an online form, upload the necessary documentation, and pay a non-refundable application fee.

The Commission said the licensing regime forms part of broader efforts to develop a transparent and accountable cannabis industry while safeguarding public health and safety.

It added that the initiative is also expected to promote innovation and contribute to Ghana’s industrial development.

Read the full statement below