Cannabis in Argentina is regulated by the Penal Code of Argentina, which prohibits its possession, cultivation, and supply, except for authorized medical purposes.[1][2][3] Official statistics estimate that cannabis is used by 7.8% of Argentina's population.[4]
Medical cannabis was legalized in 2017.[5] Regulations have evolved over time, and as of January 2024,[update] authorized patients may possess and cultivate cannabis, and there is a licensing system for the supply of medical cannabis.[6][7]
However, in a 2021 survey, nearly five of six Argentinian cannabis users said their use was more recreational than medicinal.[4] Possession without medical authorization is punishable by a prison sentence of between one month and six years,[1][2] despite a 2009 Supreme Court ruling that enforcement of the law is unconstitutional.[8][9] Cultivation, trafficking, supply, and related activities outside the regulated medical cannabis system attract more severe penalties.[2]
Medical cannabis has been legal in Chubut since September 23, 2016,[10] and in Santa Fe since November 30, 2016.[11]
On March 29, 2017, the Argentine senate approved the medical use of CBD cannabis oil,[12][13][14] and was promulgated on September 22, 2017.[5] On 12 November 2020, President Alberto Fernández signed a decree legalizing the self-cultivation and regulating the sales and subsidized access of medical cannabis, expanding upon the 2017 bill.[15] In August 2023, the regulatory agency responsible for licensing the production and trade of cannabis derivatives was formally launched.[6]
