Every year, Morocco produces over 800 tons of cannabis, making it one of the world’s top suppliers. Despite this, the legal status of cannabis in Morocco is full of twists and turns. For centuries, farmers in the Rif Mountains have grown cannabis, but the law has struggled to keep up. Let’s explore the facts, laws, and future of cannabis in this North African nation.
Is Cannabis Legal in Morocco? Legal Status in 2025
Yes, cannabis is partially legal in Morocco. Since 2021, the country has allowed cannabis growth. It can be used for medical, industrial, and cosmetic purposes, but there are rules. Recreational cannabis use is still illegal. There are strict penalties for possession, trafficking, and growing it without permission.
1. Recreational Use
Recreational cannabis is illegal. Using, selling, or possessing it for fun can lead to fines or jail time. Morocco’s laws aren’t always followed, especially in rural areas where farming is common.
2. Medicinal Use
In 2021, Morocco passed Law 13-21, allowing cannabis for medical and scientific use. Patients with prescriptions can get cannabis-based medicines. These medicines help with conditions like chronic pain and epilepsy.
3. Industrial Use
The law allows industrial hemp, a type of cannabis with low THC. It can be used to make products such as textiles, paper, and biofuels. Farmers must get government licenses to grow hemp legally.
Cannabis Law and Control in Morocco
1. How Morocco Applies Cannabis Laws
Police focus on large-scale trafficking rather than small users. Still, getting caught with even a small amount can lead to trouble. The government is gradually rolling out licensed hemp farms, but progress is minimal.
2. The Illegal Cannabis Market
Morocco’s illegal cannabis trade is worth nearly $15 billion yearly, according to the UN. Most illegal marijuan is processed into hashish and smuggled to Europe. Around 400,000 Moroccan families rely on illegal farming for income.
Cannabis Usage and Its Impact in Morocco
1. Recreational Drug Use
About 4% of Moroccan adults use cannabis recreationally, says the World Health Organization. Tourists visiting cities like Chefchaouen often encounter illegal sellers.
2. Mental Health Concerns
Frequent cannabis use can worsen anxiety and depression. A 2022 study showed that 12% of young users in Morocco had mental health issues related to heavy use.
3. Industrial Cannabis Use
Hemp could create jobs and eco-friendly products. Hempcrete, a building material, is becoming popular as a sustainable option for concrete.
Cannabis Cultivation in Morocco
Cannabis is mostly grown in the Rif Mountains, where the climate is ideal. Despite being illegal, farmers here harvest over 35,000 hectares yearly (UN data). The 2021 law lets farmers grow legally. However, high costs and paperwork push many growers to stay in the illegal market.
Cannabis Penalties in Morocco
| Offense | Penalty |
| Personal Use | Having a small amount could mean 3 months to 1 year in jail plus fines. |
| Trafficking | Selling or transporting cannabis can lead to 5–10 years in prison. |
| Growing | Growing without a license is illegal. Farmers risk 2–5 years in jail. |
Future of Cannabis Legalization in Morocco
Morocco’s 2021 law was a big step, but full legalization is unlikely soon. The government aims to enter the global medical cannabis market. It is expected to reach $55 billion by 2027. Legal hemp farming could also reduce environmental damage from illegal crops.
Public opinion is changing. A 2023 survey shows that 47% of Moroccans support medical cannabis. In contrast, only 22% support recreational use. For now, the focus remains on balancing tradition, law, and economic growth.
Weed in Morocco is a story of contrasts. Laws are strict, but an illegal market thrives. There are also new medical opportunities. Morocco is rethinking cannabis. Its next steps may change both the economy and culture.
Read more:
