Japan Bans Cannabis Gummies After Multiple Hospitalizations
Japan’s already strict marijuana laws just became stricter after some candies landed a bunch of people in the hospital.
By Himari Semans
Today the Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare (MHLW) officially added cannabis-derived HHCH to Japan’s “designated drug” list. The move comes after a nationwide series of health incidents caused by consuming HHCH gummies last month.
A new drug law
The move comes after MHLW conducted on-site inspections last week in numerous cities, including Osaka where officials immediately halted sales at the manufacture and retail company WWE on the 20th.
A ban on the substance will come into effect next month on December 2nd, from thereon making it illegal to manufacture, sell, possess, use, purchase, and transfer HHCH under the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Laws.
Violators of the law are punishable by a maximum of three years in prison or a fine of up to ¥3 million ($20,000 USD) or both.
