Learn about the current status of CBD regulations in Costa Rica and the recent bill that could change it.

On September 1, 2020, the Ministry of Health of Costa Rica issued an alert cautioning the public on the risks of products containing cannabidiol (CBD) due to the lack of scientific evidence regarding its safety and efficacy.

In Costa Rica, CBD has not considered a medication or a food supplement. Therefore, the Ministry of Health does not regulate it, and there is no legal framework to determine its safety, efficacy, and quality. As a result, the importation, distribution, and commercialization of CBD products are not authorized in Costa Rica.

Moreover, CBD products can’t be sold in pharmacies or other places allowed to sell medicines or supplements, and people who sell them could get in trouble with the law. Also, there have been a few times when people have been arrested for having CBD products.

However, on August 18, 2021, the Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica approved a bill that would allow the use of CBD for medicinal purposes. The bill is still pending signature by the President and publication in the official gazette to become law.

The bill establishes that the Ministry of Health will regulate the importation, distribution, commercialization, and use of CBD products for medicinal purposes. The statement also shows that only licensed health professionals can prescribe CBD products to patients.

In conclusion

CBD is not yet regulated in Costa Rica, and the importation, distribution, and commercialization of CBD products are not authorized. However, the bill’s approval for the use of CBD for medicinal purposes may change the current situation. We will keep you informed of any developments regarding the regulation of CBD in Costa Rica. Keep up to date  HERE.

-Co-written by Johanna Alvarez (Immigration expert) and Glenn Tellier (Founder of CRIE and Grupo Gap).

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is CBD legal in Costa Rica?

No, CBD is not currently legal in Costa Rica for importation, distribution, or commercialization.

Can I buy CBD products in Costa Rica?

No, CBD products cannot be sold in pharmacies or establishments authorized to sell medication or supplements in Costa Rica.

Are there legal penalties for commercializing CBD products in Costa Rica?

Yes, those who commercialize CBD products in Costa Rica may face legal penalties.

Can I be detained for possessing CBD products in Costa Rica?

Yes, there have been cases of people being detained for possessing CBD products in Costa Rica.

Is there a legal framework for CBD regulation in Costa Rica?

No, there is currently no legal framework to determine the safety, efficacy, and quality of CBD products in Costa Rica.

What is the bill that was recently approved regarding CBD in Costa Rica?

The bill approved by the Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica allows the use of CBD for medicinal purposes and establishes regulations for importing, distributing and commercializing CBD products.

When will the bill allowing the use of CBD for medicinal purposes become law in Costa Rica?

The bill is still pending signature by the President and publication in the official gazette to become law.

Who will be authorized to prescribe CBD products to patients in Costa Rica under the new bill?

Only licensed health professionals can prescribe CBD products to patients in Costa Rica under the new bill.

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