Cannabis, also known as marijuana, is used by over 200 million people worldwide every year, according to the United Nations. However, laws regarding this plant vary greatly between countries. In Kiribati, a small island nation in the Pacific Ocean, cannabis remains a hot topic. Is it legal to use, grow, or sell it there?
Is Cannabis Legal in Kiribati? Legal Status in Kiribati
No, cannabis is completely illegal in Kiribati in 2025. The country has strict rules against all forms of cannabis use, including medical, recreational, and industrial. Kiribati follows the Dangerous Drugs Act, which bans the production, possession, and sale of cannabis. Breaking these laws can lead to fines, jail time, or both. Unlike some countries that have relaxed their cannabis rules in recent years, Kiribati maintains a zero-tolerance policy.
1. Recreational Use
Recreational cannabis is illegal. Using marijuana for fun or relaxation can result in penalties, even for small amounts. Kiribati’s government views cannabis as a dangerous drug that harms communities.
2. Medicinal Use
There are no laws allowing medical cannabis in Kiribati. Patients cannot legally use marijuana to treat illnesses like pain or epilepsy. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that 27 countries have legalized medical cannabis globally, but Kiribati isn’t one of them.
3. Industrial Use
Industrial hemp (a type of cannabis with low THC, the chemical that causes a “high”) is also banned. Hemp is used globally to make eco-friendly products like paper and clothing, but Kiribati does not permit its growth or sale.
Cannabis Law and Control in Kiribati
1. How Kiribati Applies Cannabis Laws
Police and customs officers enforce cannabis laws strictly. For example, travelers arriving with even small amounts of cannabis can be arrested. In 2022, Pacific Island nations seized over 1,200 kilograms of illegal drugs, including cannabis, according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). Kiribati works with neighboring countries to stop drug smuggling.
2. The Illegal Cannabis Market
Despite the bans, illegal cannabis exists in Kiribati. The UNODC estimates that 5% of adults in the Pacific region use cannabis yearly. In Kiribati, limited job opportunities and social challenges may drive some people to sell or use cannabis secretly.
Cannabis Usage and Its Impact in Kiribati
1. Recreational Drug Use
Cannabis is the most used illegal drug in Kiribati, especially among young adults. However, exact usage rates are unclear due to limited research. Health experts warn that regular use can harm memory and learning.
2. Mental Health Concerns
Studies show that heavy cannabis use increases the risk of anxiety and psychosis. Kiribati has few mental health services, making it harder to treat people struggling with addiction.
3. Industrial Cannabis Use
Kiribati misses out on industrial hemp’s benefits, like creating jobs or eco-friendly products. Countries like Greece and New Zealand allow hemp farming, but Kiribati’s laws haven’t changed.
Cannabis Cultivation in Kiribati
Growing cannabis is illegal. The tropical climate could support cannabis plants, but farmers face harsh penalties if caught. Most cannabis found in Kiribati is smuggled from other countries like Bahrain and Barbados.
Cannabis Penalties in Kiribati
| Offense | Penalty |
| Personal Use | Having even a small amount of cannabis can lead to up to 5 years in jail or a fine. |
| Trafficking | Selling or transporting cannabis may result in 10+ years in prison, especially for large amounts. |
| Growing | Growing cannabis plants can lead to fines and imprisonment, similar to trafficking. |
Future of Cannabis Legalization in Kiribati
Kiribati’s government shows no signs of legalizing cannabis. Cultural and religious values strongly oppose drug use. While global trends shift toward legalization, Kiribati prioritizes strict laws to protect public health.
Cannabis is illegal in Kiribati for all purposes in 2025. Breaking these laws leads to serious penalties. While other countries explore medical or industrial uses, Kiribati remains firm in its ban. For now, residents and visitors must avoid cannabis to stay safe and lawful.
