On August 16, a landmark law legalizing the use of medical cannabis in Ukraine came into force, marking a significant shift in the country’s approach to cannabis regulation. This law, signed by President Volodymyr Zelensky in February 2024, declassifies cannabis, its resin, extracts, and tinctures from the list of “particularly dangerous substances” (List 1) and reclassifies them under “permitted under strict control” (List 2). This crucial reclassification lifts the existing ban on the circulation of cannabis for medical purposes, albeit with stringent regulations.
Medical Use and Access
The Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization (WHO) estimate that up to seven million people in Ukraine could benefit from cannabis-based medications. These include individuals suffering from conditions such as cancer, epilepsy, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including military personnel affected by the ongoing conflict.
Obtaining Medical Cannabis
To access these medications, patients will need an electronic prescription detailing the dosage, form, and active substances. The law specifies that medical cannabis will be available in forms such as oral drops, hard capsules, and dental pastes, with production occurring within pharmacy settings. This ensures that only patients with specific medical needs, for whom conventional treatments are ineffective or poorly tolerated, will receive these medications.
Growing Conditions and Licensing
The law also outlines strict regulations for the cultivation of medical cannabis. Cultivation is permitted under licensed conditions, subject to review by the Cabinet of Ministers. Key requirements include growing the plants in controlled environments, 24/7 video surveillance accessible to the National Police, and adherence to Good Agricultural and Collection Practices (GACP).
In addition to cultivation, the law covers the entire supply chain—from seed production to the final dispensing of medication in pharmacies. An electronic inventory system, expected to be operational by autumn, will track every stage of the process, ensuring transparency and state control.
Import and Export Provisions
Licensed importers with permits from the State Medical Service are allowed to bring in raw materials under strict quotas to produce medical cannabis products. While the law allows for the import of necessary materials, it does not address the export of these products, leaving room for future developments in international trade.
Legal and Practical Implications
The new law also permits individuals with valid prescriptions to cross Ukraine’s borders with their medical cannabis, within prescribed limits. However, this provision raises potential legal risks if neighboring countries do not recognize the legality of medical cannabis, highlighting the need for further international coordination.
A Step Forward for Ukrainian Healthcare
As Ukraine embraces the medical use of cannabis, this new law represents a significant step forward in providing relief to millions of patients. With up to seven million Ukrainians potentially benefiting from cannabis-based medications, this legislation not only modernizes the country’s healthcare system but also opens up new opportunities for businesses and investors in the medical cannabis sector.
This regulatory framework, while stringent, ensures that the benefits of medical cannabis are accessible to those in need, paving the way for improved healthcare outcomes in Ukraine.
