Cannabis, also called marijuana, has been part of human culture for thousands of years. Some countries allow it for medical or recreational use. But others, like Mongolia, keep strict controls. In Mongolia, a land known for its vast steppes and rich history, cannabis laws are strict. Let’s explore whether cannabis is legal or not in Mongolia.
Is Cannabis Legal in Mongolia? Legal Status in 2025
No, cannabis is not legal in Mongolia for any purpose. The country’s laws ban the use, sale, and growing of cannabis, whether for fun, medicine, or industry. Even products like CBD oil (which has low THC, the chemical that causes a “high”) are illegal.
Mongolia follows strict drug policies. A 2021 UN report showed the country seized more than 50 kilograms of cannabis that year. For now, there are no exceptions to the rules. Let’s look at how this applies to different uses:
1. Recreational Use
Recreational cannabis is fully banned. Using it for fun can lead to fines or jail time. A 2020 survey showed that 1.5% of Mongolian adults had tried cannabis. This indicates low usage rates.
3. Medicinal Use
Medical cannabis is also illegal. Mongolia is different from countries like Mexico or Colombia. It doesn’t let doctors prescribe cannabis, even for serious illnesses such as cancer.
3. Industrial Use
Industrial hemp (a cannabis plant with very low THC) is prohibited too. Some countries use hemp for clothes, paper, or fuel. In Mongolia, laws treat hemp the same as other cannabis types.
Cannabis Law and Control in Mongolia
Mongolia’s government takes drug laws seriously. Here’s how it enforces them:
1. How Mongolia Applies Cannabis Laws
Police actively investigate drug crimes. In 2022, over 300 people were arrested for cannabis-related offenses. The country follows the Narcotics Law of 2015. This law classifies cannabis as a “Category IV” controlled substance.
2. The Illegal Cannabis Market
Despite strict laws, illegal cannabis exists. Most comes from neighboring countries. A 2023 study estimated that 70% of seized cannabis in Mongolia was smuggled across borders.
Cannabis Usage and Its Impact in Mongolia
How does cannabis affect Mongolia? Let’s explore:
1. Recreational Drug Use
Recreational use is rare but rising among young adults. A 2022 health report found that cannabis led to 5% of drug-related hospital visits in cities, including Ulaanbaatar.
2. Mental Health Concerns
Cannabis can harm mental health if used heavily. Mongolia’s National Mental Health Center says THC might increase anxiety or depression. There is not much data because few people use it.
3. Industrial Cannabis Use
Mongolia misses a chance to tap into a global market worth over $5 billion yearly because industrial hemp is illegal. Farmers can’t grow hemp for eco-friendly products like biodegradable plastics.
Cannabis Cultivation in Mongolia
Growing cannabis is illegal, even at home. Mongolia’s cold climate makes it tough to farm outdoors. Still, police discover small indoor grows. In 2022, authorities destroyed 120 cannabis plants nationwide.
Cannabis Penalties in Mongolia
| Offense | Penalty |
| Personal Use | Having even a small amount can mean 1–5 years in jail or fines up to $1,500. |
| Trafficking | Selling or smuggling cannabis risks 5–10 years in prison. Larger amounts (over 1 kg) can lead to 10+ years. |
| Growing | Growing any cannabis plants may result in 2–8 years in jail, depending on the scale. |
Future of Cannabis Legalization in Mongolia
Will Mongolia ever legalize cannabis? Right now, there’s no public push for change. The government focuses on fighting drug crime, not reforming laws.
However, global trends could spark debate. For example, Thailand legalized medical cannabis in 2018, boosting its economy. If Mongolia’s neighbors relax laws, pressure to reconsider might grow.
Cannabis is still illegal in Mongolia. There are strict penalties for users, sellers, and growers. While the plant’s global reputation evolves, Mongolia holds firm.
Always check local laws before you travel. Remember, breaking the rules can have serious consequences.
