About 192 million people use cannabis around the world. Laws about its use are very different in each place. While nations like Mexico and Malta have legalized it, others enforce strict bans. So, is cannabis legal in Moldova? Let’s find out.
Is Cannabis Legal in Moldova? Legal Status in 2025
No, cannabis is illegal in Moldova for recreational, medical, or industrial use. The country has a law from 2011 that bans cannabis.
You cannot have, sell, or grow it. A 2023 UN report confirmed that Moldova has no legal exceptions, even for medical purposes.
Moldova shows no plans to legalize cannabis by 2025. The government focuses on reducing drug abuse and linking cannabis to crime. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Recreational Use
Recreational cannabis is fully banned. A 2022 study by the National Institute of Justice found that 7% of Moldovans aged 18–25 tried cannabis. This is lower than the European average, which is 15%.
3. Medicinal Use
Medical cannabis is not legal. Over 35 countries, including Italy and Poland, allow it for conditions like epilepsy. However, Moldova’s Health Ministry says there is “insufficient evidence” to approve it.
3. Industrial Use
Industrial hemp (used for rope, textiles, etc.) is also banned. Romania and Ukraine allow hemp farming, but Moldova makes all cannabis illegal.
Cannabis Law and Control in Moldova
1. How Moldova Applies Cannabis Laws
Police and border guards actively enforce cannabis bans. In 2023, Moldova’s customs seized 22 kg of cannabis at Chișinău Airport up 30% from 2022. Sniffer dogs and random checks are common in nightlife areas.
2. The Illegal Cannabis Market
Despite strict laws, illegal cannabis thrives. A 2023 EU report estimated that 60% of Moldova’s cannabis is smuggled from Ukraine or Romania. Prices range from €10 to €20 per gram—double the cost in nearby legal markets.
Cannabis Usage and Its Impact in Moldova
1. Recreational Drug Use
Cannabis is Moldova’s third most-used drug after alcohol and tobacco. Youth usage is rising, with 10% of high school students trying it by age 17 (2021 Ministry of Education survey). Most users smoke it, but edibles and oils are rare.
2. Mental Health Concerns
Doctors warn that cannabis may increase anxiety or depression risks. A 2023 study from Chișinău Medical University found that heavy use raises the risk of mental health issues in teens by 20%.
3. Industrial Cannabis Use
No industrial hemp is allowed. Farmers miss out on a global hemp market worth $5.6 billion (2023 Grand View Research data).
Cannabis Cultivation in Moldova
Growing cannabis is illegal, even for personal use. Moldova’s climate supports cannabis growth, but the police destroy crops. Most illegal farms are small (5–10 plants) and hidden in rural areas like Transnistria.
Cannabis Penalties in Moldova
| Offense | Penalty |
| Personal Use | €300–€500 fine or up to 3 months in jail. |
| Trafficking | Selling or transporting cannabis can mean 5–12 years in prison, based on quantity. |
| Growing | Cultivating any amount results in 3–8 years in jail. |
Future of Cannabis Legalization in Moldova
Legalization is unlikely soon. A 2023 government poll revealed that 82% of Moldovans oppose cannabis legalization. They worry it will lead to more drug abuse.
However, advocates argue that legal medical cannabis could boost healthcare and tax revenue. Neighbors such as Romania are discussing reforms. This may push Moldova to rethink its plans by 2030.
Cannabis is still completely illegal in Moldova. There are strict penalties for anyone who uses, sells, or grows it.
