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Nepal Club

Nepal - February 25, 2024

Legalization of Hemp in Nepal

Hemp, scientifically known as Cannabis sativa, is a versatile plant with various industrial and medicinal uses. Historically, hemp has been cultivated for thousands of years for its fibers, seeds, and oils, which have been used to produce textiles, paper, ropes, construction materials, food products, and medicines. Hemp is distinct from marijuana, another variety of the Cannabis plant, primarily in its lower levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana. While marijuana contains higher levels of THC, typically ranging from 3 to 30%, hemp contains THC levels below 0.3%.

In the context of Nepal, hemp has a long history of cultivation and use, dating back centuries. Nepali communities have traditionally utilized hemp fibers for weaving textiles and making ropes, sacks, and other durable products. Additionally, various parts of the hemp plant, including its seeds and oils, have been valued for their nutritional and medicinal properties.

However, the global prohibition of cannabis, including hemp, gained momentum in the 20th century, fueled by international movements such as the United States’ “War on Drugs” initiated by President Richard Nixon in the 1970s. As a result, Nepal’s government enacted the Narcotics Drug Control Act in 1976, which categorized both cannabis and medicinal cannabis as narcotics and prohibited their cultivation and use.

Supporting Examples from Worldwide:

United States Legalization: In recent years, several states in the United States have legalized the cultivation and production of hemp for industrial and commercial purposes. This shift in policy has led to a booming hemp industry, with farmers and entrepreneurs capitalizing on the plant’s diverse applications, from textiles and construction materials to CBD-infused products for health and wellness.
European Union Regulation: The European Union has established regulations allowing for the cultivation and processing of hemp with low THC levels (below 0.2%). European countries such as France, Germany, and the Netherlands have thriving hemp industries, producing a wide range of hemp-derived products for domestic and international markets.

Criticizing Examples from Worldwide:

Challenges in Regulation: Despite the legalization of hemp in some countries, regulatory challenges remain a significant hurdle for the industry. In the United States, for example, hemp farmers face complex licensing requirements, testing regulations, and marketing restrictions, hindering their ability to fully capitalize on the market potential of hemp-derived products.
Stigma and Misconceptions: Despite the scientific distinction between hemp and marijuana, stigma and misconceptions surrounding cannabis persist, inhibiting broader acceptance and adoption of hemp products. Some policymakers and members of the public still associate hemp with illicit drug use, leading to resistance to legalization and investment in the industry.

Efforts to decriminalize hemp cultivation and harness its benefits in Nepal could open up new opportunities for farmers, entrepreneurs, and industries while contributing to the country’s socioeconomic development and environmental sustainability. However, addressing regulatory challenges, overcoming stigma, and educating policymakers and the public will be essential steps in realizing the full potential of the hemp industry in Nepal and globally.

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