Launch of Medicinal Cannabis Authority in Saint Kitts and Nevis

Attorney General Hon. Garth Wilkin.

Introduction

The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis, through the Ministry of Agriculture, launched the Medicinal Cannabis Authority on Friday, April 25, 2025, marking a significant step in the development of a comprehensive, well-regulated medicinal cannabis industry in the Federation.

Background

Attorney General Hon. Garth Wilkin.

While delivering remarks at the launch event on Princes Street, Basseterre, Attorney General, the Honourable Garth Wilkin, stated that since taking office in August 2022, the government embarked on a deliberate journey to address the cultural, religious, and legal dimensions of cannabis use, moving the Federation closer to a sustainable monetisation structure for cannabis.

Protecting Religious Rights

In the initial stages, the administration prioritised protecting the religious rights of the Rastafari community. This was achieved through the passage of the Rastafari Rights Recognition Act in 2023, giving legal recognition to the right, affirmed by the Court in the landmark Sankofa decision, for Rastafarians to use cannabis as a religious sacrament.

Freedom of Conscience

The government further solidified the constitutional right to freedom of conscience through the Freedom of Conscience Act of 2023, allowing citizens to legally use cannabis oils, smoke cannabis, or otherwise utilise cannabis as an expression of their beliefs.

Decriminalisation of Cannabis

In addition, the formal decriminalisation of cannabis for general use was enacted, permitting individuals to possess small quantities and cultivate up to five plants without facing criminal sanctions. These reforms followed the recommendations of the Cannabis Board, which conducted extensive research on the matter.

Establishment of Medicinal Cannabis Regime

The latest and most significant step has been the establishment of a formal medicinal cannabis regime. With the enactment of the Cannabis Act in late 2023 and the operationalisation of the Medicinal Cannabis Authority, Attorney General Wilkin said Saint Kitts and Nevis has moved beyond legislation to practical implementation.

Commitment to Responsible Industry

Honourable Wilkin emphasised the government’s commitment to ensuring a responsible, mature, and internationally compliant industry. “The entire regime is now set for us. The table is set. It’s for us to be responsible and to take advantage and to make an industry and to create jobs, to create economic opportunities,” the attorney general stated.

Licensing System

The licensing system established by the Medicinal Cannabis Authority is pivotal in ensuring that medicinal cannabis is of the highest quality for end users, particularly patients holding authorised prescriptions. Legal sales of cannabis will only be permitted through licensed entities, with new opportunities emerging for the establishment of cannabis lounges similar to those already operating in countries like Jamaica, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Antigua and Barbuda.

Adherence to Regulatory Framework

Attorney General Wilkin cautioned that while progress has been made, strict adherence to the regulatory framework is essential. Unauthorised sales of cannabis remain illegal and subject to enforcement by law enforcement agencies.

Conclusion

The launch of the Medicinal Cannabis Authority marks a significant milestone in the development of a comprehensive and well-regulated medicinal cannabis industry in Saint Kitts and Nevis. The government calls on all stakeholders to engage responsibly with the new framework and to work together towards a prosperous and innovative future for the Federation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Medicinal Cannabis Authority?

The Medicinal Cannabis Authority is a regulatory body established by the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis to oversee the development of a comprehensive and well-regulated medicinal cannabis industry in the Federation.

What are the benefits of the Medicinal Cannabis Authority?

The Medicinal Cannabis Authority will ensure that medicinal cannabis is of the highest quality for end users, particularly patients holding authorised prescriptions. It will also create new opportunities for the establishment of cannabis lounges and other businesses, generating economic growth and job creation.

How will the Medicinal Cannabis Authority regulate the industry?

The Medicinal Cannabis Authority will establish a licensing system to ensure that all entities involved in the production, distribution, and sale of medicinal cannabis are compliant with regulatory requirements. It will also monitor and enforce adherence to the regulatory framework to prevent unauthorised sales of cannabis.