Is CBD legal in China?
David ReichUpdated:The most important points at a glance:
Is CBD legal in China? In short: no. China follows a zero-tolerance approach to drugs. The law does not distinguish between THC and CBD. Possession, sale and consumption are prohibited and can be severely punished. Import is not permitted. Hemp may be cultivated in certain provinces, but only for the production of CBD for export. Common CBD products include oils, capsules, edibles, vape products, as well as creams and lotions.
Which products contain CBD?
Before looking at CBD legality in China, it is useful to know which types of products commonly contain CBD and could therefore create legal issues when travelling. Typical CBD products include:
- CBD oils and tinctures: Liquid drops usually placed under the tongue for faster absorption.
- CBD capsules and tablets: Measured doses of CBD in capsule or tablet form, similar to food supplements.
- CBD edibles: Food products such as gummies, chocolate, drinks and snacks that contain CBD.
- CBD vape products: E-liquids, cartridges and vape pens designed for inhaling CBD vapour.
- CBD skincare products: Creams, balms, lotions and salves applied to the skin.
Any product that lists CBD, hemp extract or cannabis extract as an ingredient may be treated as a CBD product for the purposes of CBD law in a country like China.
Understanding CBD
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound found in the cannabis plant. It is often discussed in relation to potential therapeutic uses and is commonly used by individuals in connection with issues such as anxiety, sleep problems and long-term discomfort.
CBD is different from tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), another well-known cannabis compound. THC is considered psychoactive and is responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis. CBD is not regarded as psychoactive in the same way and does not typically produce this type of effect.
Is CBD legal in China?
CBD legality in China is highly restrictive. The country has a strict, zero-tolerance approach to drugs, and this extends to cannabis and its derivatives. Under Chinese law, there is no meaningful legal distinction between THC and CBD, even though they have different properties.
Hemp cultivation is permitted in some provinces, but only under tight controls. This cultivation is mainly for industrial purposes and for the production of CBD that will be exported. The production and sale of CBD products for use inside China are illegal.
Chinese authorities classify CBD as a type of drug, regardless of its THC content. As a result, possession, sale and use of CBD in China are prohibited and may lead to serious criminal penalties.
CBD is treated as an illegal drug in China, and CBD products for domestic use are not permitted, even if they contain no detectable THC.
CBD travel rules: can you bring CBD to China?
When considering CBD travel rules for China, it is important to note the difference between production for export and possession inside the country. While China is a major exporter of CBD, this does not make CBD legal for residents or visitors.
Import and export of CBD in China
Licensed hemp producers in certain regions are allowed to manufacture CBD, but only for export to markets where CBD law permits it. These producers are not allowed to sell CBD products to consumers in China.
The import of CBD into China is strictly banned. Travellers bringing CBD products into the country, even in small quantities or for personal use, risk enforcement action. Penalties for importing or possessing CBD can include fines and imprisonment.
This applies to all forms of CBD products, such as:
- CBD oils and tinctures
- CBD capsules and tablets
- CBD edibles (including gummies and drinks)
- CBD vape liquids and devices
- CBD cosmetics and skincare
Bringing CBD into China, in any form and in any quantity, is prohibited and may result in criminal penalties for travellers.
The legal situation in neighbouring countries:
Conclusion: CBD law in China
In summary, the answer to “Is CBD legal in China?” is clear: CBD is illegal in China for domestic use. Although hemp can be grown under strict rules and CBD can be manufactured for export, the possession, sale and use of CBD inside the country remain prohibited.
The import of CBD into China is also forbidden. This applies regardless of the CBD THC limit in other countries, and regardless of whether a product is legal at home or has a doctor’s recommendation.
Anyone thinking of bringing CBD to China or buying CBD products while in China should be fully aware of these restrictions and the potential for severe penalties.