Ever wondered about the legal status of CBD in Turkey? This blog provides an extensive understanding of the standing of CBD in Turkey, defining the legal contexts, usage, historical relevance, penal action, and more. Be it for recreational or medicinal use, the stringent regulations surrounding cannabis in Turkey are notably different, even by global standards.
TL;DR
The cannabis laws in Turkey are quite choosy and regulated, with one primary distinctive legal criterion being the THC content present in the product. It’s mandatory for the THC to be less than 0.2% in Turkey. If the THC content exceeds this limit, it’s considered illegal. The following table provides a simple and clear understanding of the CBD laws in Turkey.
| Cannabis Aspect | Legality |
|---|---|
| Usage | With prescription |
| Possession | Illegal without prescription |
| Production | Fully legal |
Overview of CBD Legislation
Key Terms
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a chemical compound found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, the prime psychoactive constituent in marijuana, CBD tends to have therapeutic effects rather than getting you high. The two major types of cannabis plant are hemp and marijuana, the former containing higher concentrations of CBD and lower concentrations of THC and the latter rich in THC but low in CBD.
Legal Landscape
The legal status of CBD varies significantly around the world. Countries like Canada and Uruguay have completely legalized cannabis, while others, including Turkey, impose various restrictions on its use.
Legal Status
In Turkey, CBD oil with a lesser THC content (less than 0.2%) is technically legal, and a higher concentration is dramatically regulated and comes under the purview of ‘drugs’. Meaning, CBD is legal with a few conditions and restrictions.
Regulatory Bodies
The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry is the primary regulatory body for all the clearances, permissions, and regulations associated with CBD oil and cannabis in Turkey.
Historical Context
The cannabis laws in Turkey have been subjected to dynamic changes throughout the years. Recently in 2016, the laws were amended allowing controlled production of cannabis in 19 provinces for medicinal and scientific purposes, leading to a surge in CBD oil production.
Possession, Use, Cultivation and Sales
In Turkey, CBD products are sold in pharmacies. They must contain less than 0..2% THC to be legal. Persons found possessing CBD oil with THC content more than the stipulated limit could get criminally penalized. Marijuana cultivation for commercial purposes is not allowed outside the controlled premises.
Enforcement and Penalties
The penalties depend upon the intention by which the cannabis was being used. Possessing cannabis for personal use can lead to a probation period of 2-5 years, whereas intent to sell can lead up to a 20-year prison sentence.
Comparative Analysis
Unlike countries like the USA or Canada where the use of medical cannabis and CBD oil is more liberal, Turkey’s legal framework is comparatively stricter, with several conditions and restrictions related to cannabis use.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while CBD oil is legal in Turkey, the use remains heavily regulated, and it sits at a critical juncture where potential expansions in its cannabis policy will ultimately depend on the evolving international outlook towards cannabis. The CBD scene in Turkey has great potential for future development as the world continues to soften around the edges of its outlook towards cannabis.
