The Narcotics Control Commission (NCC) has officially opened applications for licences to cultivate and manage cannabis for industrial and medicinal purposes in Ghana.

The March 11, 2026 announcement follows the launch of the country’s national cannabis licensing regime on February 26, 2026, by the Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak.

In a statement signed by Acting Director of Public Affairs and International Relations, Francis Opoku Amoah, the commission said the move marks a significant step in implementing Section 43 of the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), as amended, as well as Legislative Instrument 2475.

According to the NCC, the framework represents a strategic effort to harness the economic and health benefits of cannabis while maintaining strict regulatory oversight.

Industrial and medicinal use

The commission clarified that licences will only be granted for cannabis containing not more than 0.3 per cent THC on a dry weight basis, in line with existing laws.

Under the programme, cannabis cultivation and processing will be limited to two key areas: industrial use and medicinal development.

Industrial cannabis will primarily be used for the production of high-quality fibre and seeds, while medicinal cannabis will support the development of pharmaceutical and health-related products.

Eleven licence categories

The NCC said the regulatory framework covers 11 different licence categories, allowing individuals and companies to participate in various segments of the emerging industry.

The categories include:

- cultivation

- processing

- breeding

- research and development

- laboratory testing

- storage

- transportation

- import

- export

- sales

- distribution

- advertising and promotion

Digital application process

Prospective applicants are required to submit their applications through the Commission’s official website.

Interested parties must select the appropriate licence category on the NCC portal, complete the online application forms and upload the required documentation.

The commission said applicants will also be required to pay a non-refundable application fee, which can be made through Visa card, Mobile Money, or a payment voucher obtained from any NIB Bank branch nationwide.

Regulatory oversight

The NCC emphasised that it remains committed to building a transparent and accountable cannabis industry that balances economic opportunities with public health and safety.

According to the commission, the new licensing regime is designed to promote lawful innovation and industrial development while ensuring strict regulatory control over cannabis production and use in Ghana.