Notice from Consulate General of France (Change in CBD Regulations)
Dear Parents
Please find a notice from the Consulate General of France in Hong Kong and Macau regarding Drug Regulations in Hong Kong from 1st February. An English translation is provided below.
Drug use and trafficking in Hong Kong: extremely severe criminal consequences, including for minors and their families, tightened since 1st February, 2023
Every year, many people in Hong Kong, including young people and especially foreigners, are sentenced to heavy penalties for drug use and possession.
Beyond the known harmful effects on health and the risks of addiction, the legal and penal consequences of drug use, possession and trafficking are extremely severe in the territory. It is therefore important for everyone to be aware of the risk to themselves and their families if they possess, consume or traffic drugs, including during festive and social events that are considered safe, but which can lead to arrests by the police.
In Hong Kong, regulations are much stricter than in Europe and zero tolerance is applied. The classification of substances as drugs is different and some products that are legal in Europe are forbidden here.
What is considered a ‘drug’ in Hong Kong?
The most known substances include:
- Cannabis, cocaine, heroin, ketamine, ecstasy, mushrooms, “Ice” …
Effective 1st February 2023:
- All cannabis derivatives, including cannabidiol (CBD).
It should be noted that, until now, tetrahydro derivatives (THC) alone were classified as a dangerous drug. CBD has been marketed and widespread for a few years in many businesses. It is now also classified as a dangerous drug.
Additionally :
- certain tranquillisers, especially anxiolytics and sleeping pills used in Europe;
- certain cough medicines containing codeine
No difference between “hard” and “soft” drugs in Hong Kong:
- There are no distinctions between drugs according to their harmfulness.
- Some substances that may be authorised in Europe or North America, especially for therapeutic use, are strictly prohibited.
What are the risks, for adults or minors?
- Possession and consumption (smoking, inhaling, ingesting, injecting) = maximum of 7 years imprisonment and a fine of 1 million HKD.
- Selling/trafficking = (maximum) life imprisonment and a fine of 5 million HKD. WARNING: trafficking includes “giving away” a substance.
- Possession of a smoking pipe, any other smoking device = up to 3 years imprisonment and fine.
- Cultivation of cannabis = up to 15 years in prison.
ATTENTION: Minors are criminally responsible.
And the parents of minors, what do they risk?
- Visa suspension (no visa = loss of job);
- Expulsion from the territory of foreigners, regardless of their status in the country and the length of their stay.
So be vigilant and responsible!
Best regards