Industrial Hemp and Medical Cannabis Act No. 31 of 2021.

The Industrial Hemp and Medical Cannabis Act No. 31 of 2021 in Vanuatu establishes regulations and guidelines for the cultivation, manufacturing, and export of industrial hemp and medical cannabis. The Act outlines the purpose of the legislation, defines key terms, and establishes the Industrial Hemp and Medical Cannabis Advisory Committee responsible for overseeing these activities. The Act allows the Minister to issue licenses for the importation, cultivation, manufacture, and export of hemp and cannabis seeds. Applicants must meet specific criteria, including having at least 10 years of experience in the cultivation and manufacturing of industrial hemp or medical cannabis. The Committee plays a crucial role in considering license applications and ensuring compliance with regulations. In case of a breach of the license conditions, the Minister, on the advice of the Committee, may suspend or cancel the license, leading to the cessation of commercial operations until the issue is resolved. The Act also outlines provisions for the cancellation of licenses in cases such as bankruptcy, liquidation, or conviction of an offense under the Act. Additionally, the Act provides immunity for the Minister, Committee members, and enforcement officers for actions taken in good faith while carrying out their duties. It also empowers the Minister, with the advice of the Committee, to make regulations necessary for implementing the provisions of the Act, including zoning of cultivation sites, cultivation processes, importation procedures, and setting license fees.