Botswana publishes rules for cannabis with strict control and limits on hemp

Botswana, in Africa, has officially published a new set of regulations for cannabis, detailing rules for cultivation, processing, transportation, research, and international trade. Despite establishing a more defined legal framework for the sector, the text maintains a highly controlled approach, with strict requirements and limitations on access and social participation. 

Among the key points of the regulation is the absence of a clear distinction between hemp and cannabis with higher THC content. The country has opted for the use of the term "industrial cannabis" instead of "industrial hemp", a nomenclature adopted in several international markets. 

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The maximum THC content has been set at 0.7%, below the 2% limit adopted by South Africa, and any harvest exceeding this percentage will be considered non-compliant and subject to destruction. 

Manufacturing and processing also now operate under separate licenses, covering everything from oil extraction and cannabinoid profiles to fiber production and pharmaceutical preparations, as reported by Cannabiz Africa.

Rules for cultivation, manufacturing, and transportation

In cultivation, the regulation provides for the issuance of specific licenses for commercial production, nurseries, and seed production. These authorizations are valid for three years and are subject to compliance with operational standards, with periodic inspections carried out by the competent authorities.

Manufacturing activities require facilities to meet strict criteria for security, personnel qualification, financial capacity, and quality control. Licenses for this stage are valid for five years and may be suspended or revoked in case of non-compliance with the established requirements.

Cannabis transportation is classified as a high-risk activity. Vehicles must have closed and locked compartments, electronic security systems, and complete traceability documentation. 

Information such as routes, drivers, volumes, and destinations must be pre-approved. Inspections can occur at any time, licenses are valid annually, and transporting cannabis with other goods is prohibited. These requirements reinforce the highly controlled nature of the logistics chain.

Research, import, and export

Research has been defined as a priority activity within the new regulatory framework. Separate licenses are required for research on industrial and medicinal cannabis, covering genetic improvement studies, agronomic trials, cannabinoid extraction, toxicology, and product development. Independent laboratories must meet international accreditation standards and operate structurally separate from licensed producers. Each batch of cannabis must be traceable, tested, and certified.

Import and export are allowed, but under strict controls and international compliance requirements. Each shipment requires specific approval, detailed documentation, and the use of pre-authorized routes. 
 

With information from Cannabiz Africa.