Strict enforcement action to control cannabidiol (CBD) starting Feb. 1: Customs 

Hemp oil, CBD chemical formula, Cannabis oil in pipette and hemp seeds in a wooden spoon, Medical herb concept

A new legislative control of cannabidiol (CBD) will take into effect starting Feb. 1.

The Hong Kong Government will put CBD under the same strict control as other dangerous drugs under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance (DDO) from Feb. 1 and onwards.

The Hong Kong Customs will make sure to fiercely combat the related drug trafficking activities.

A fine of HK$1-million and imprisonment of seven years for any possession and consumption of CBD in contravention of the DDO.

Under the DDO, trafficking (including importing and exporting) and illicit manufacturing of CBD is liable to a maximum penalty of a fine of HK$5-million and life imprisonment.

Moreover, importation of products, which include food or drinks that contain CBD into Hong Kong, is prohibited unless the relevant provisions in the DDO are followed.

Customs will increase their activities to intercept the import and transit movements of CBD products in various channels.

Meanwhile, customs authorities will continue to apply a risk assessment strategy to select passengers, cargoes, and postal packets for clearance to fight against transnational drug trafficking activities.

The public is reminded not to bring any cannabis products or products containing CBD into the city.

To ensure that they are not breaking the law, individuals entering Hong Kong should not buy any products that contain CBD.

They should also read the products’ packaging and labels that contain words of CBD or tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) when making any purchases.

If in doubt, they should avoid buying all of these products altogether.

In addition, custom authorities continue to remind the public to stay alert and not to participate in drug trafficking activities in exchange for money.

Individuals must not accept hiring or delegation from another party to carry controlled items into and out of Hong Kong.

They are also reminded not to bring unknown items for other people as well as not to provide their personal details to others when receiving parcels or goods.

The public may report any suspected drug trafficking activities to custom authorities’ 24-hour hotline 2545 6182 or they should contact the crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk).