Surprising Marijuana Laws From Around the World

Many travellers are ill-informed when it comes to cannabis laws around the world. Planning on travelling soon? Read on and be aware of these 6 surprising laws.

• Jamaica

  By The Stoner's Cookbook

  Although Snoop Dogg (Lion?) would have you believe otherwise, it is illegal to possess ganja in Jamaica. Even the possession of small quantities could lead to imprisonment. 

• North Korea

  By The Stoner's Cookbook

  While there are strict laws around the world, North Korea seemingly has none when it comes to cannabis. There are reports of tourists and expats smoking cannabis in public without issue.

• Amsterdam

  By The Stoner's Cookbook

  Although a policy of tolerance passed in 1976 that decriminalized possession of 5 grams or less, if you're carrying more and aren't discreet, you can still get busted.

• Japan

  By The Stoner's Cookbook

  Japan's laws around weed are among the strictest in the world. Even being caught possessing a small amount could be punishable with to up to 5 years in prison. 

• United Arab Emirates

  By The Stoner's Cookbook

  The United Arab Emirates unsurprisingly tops the list for the harshest laws against the possession of cannabis. There is a 4 year minimum sentence for anyone caught with even a trace of the stuff.

• Malaysia

  By The Stoner's Cookbook

  Malaysia takes cannabis possession SERIOUSLY. If caught with cannabis, you'd be lucky to get deported or thrown in prison, as the alternative may be the death penalty. Yikes.