Yes, medical cannabis is legal in Albania, but it is regulated by specific rules related to its cultivation, sale and use.
Albanian Law on Medical Cannabis
In 2023, the Albanian Parliament passed Law No. 61/2023, “On the Control of the Cultivation and Processing of the Cannabis Plant and the Production of its By-products for Medical and Industrial Purposes”, representing a significant change in the country’s stance on medical cannabis. This law allows for the licensed cultivation of medical cannabis, but exclusively for export purposes. The main purpose of this law is to establish Albania as a competitive player in the international medical cannabis market, especially in Europe, where the demand for medical cannabis products is growing.
However, it is essential to understand that the law expressly prohibits the sale of medical cannabis for personal use within Albanian territory. Therefore, while cultivation for export is permitted, Albanian citizens are not allowed to legally purchase or use medical cannabis within the country.
Can I bring prescription medical cannabis into Albania?
The use of medical cannabis in Albania is illegal, even if you have a valid prescription from your home country, where medical cannabis is legal. Albanian law does not recognize foreign prescriptions for medical cannabis and attempting to bring such products into the country can lead to legal problems.
What is medical cannabis?
Medical cannabis refers to pharmaceutical products derived from the cannabis plant, which are prescribed by licensed medical professionals in countries where its distribution and use are legal. These products are intended for therapeutic purposes to alleviate various medical conditions and are distributed through pharmacies. It is important to distinguish between medical cannabis and industrial hemp (industrial cannabis), which is primarily cultivated for textiles, construction materials and food products.
Navigating the Medical Cannabis Legal Landscape in Albania
While Albania has made progress in legalizing the cultivation of medical cannabis for export, significant restrictions on sales and personal use still exist. As the legal landscape continues to evolve, it is essential for both residents and visitors to stay informed about local laws and regulations to ensure compliance. Understanding these regulations will help individuals navigate the complexities of medical cannabis use and avoid potential legal issues during their stay in Albania.
