PM: Marijuana Cultivation Needs Legal Framework to Avoid Risks

Georgian Prime Minister Mamuka Bakhtadze has confirmed that the government is discussing legalizing marijuana cultivation only for export purposes for pharmaceutical and cosmetic products. However, he says the proper legal framework should be constructed to reduce risks and avoid complications.

The PM made the statement on September 12, after a governmental session. After the Constitutional Court of Georgia abolished punishment for personal use of marijuana, the country faces a new reality, he says.

“I would like to underline that marijuana distribution is still punishable by criminal law," said Bakhtadze.

As the Minister of Internal Affairs, Giorgi Gakharia, stated after the Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, a special agency will be set up for licensing marijuana cultivation.

“The agency will identify the specific licensing conditions and issue licenses for various activities, including production, growing, processing, etc. This will be a strictly regulated activity, which will have its own regulator and involve the toughest and most effective control mechanisms," said the Minister.

By Thea Morrison

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