Finance Minister urges further study before legalising cannabis production

KATHMANDU: Finance Minister Dr Swarnim Wagle has said the government will facilitate the production and marketing of cannabis for medicinal purposes, while stressing the need for further study before any change to existing law.

Responding to questions from National Assembly members on Friday, Dr Wagle said cannabis is a medicinal plant, but its use as a narcotic remains a concern that must be controlled. "That's why legal provisions need reviewing following consultations with experts. Further study before deciding on the existing provisions on its production is imperative," he underscored.

He noted growing openness towards marijuana in developed and Western nations and added, "It will address the issue positively if further study and conclusions determine that it should be legalised."

Dr Wagle said that production and marketing of cannabis in accordance with the law could boost income, generate employment, promote industry and increase government revenue.

He also told National Assembly members that an initial budget of Rs 700,000 was allocated in the fiscal year 2026/27 for the formulation of acts, rules, procedures, guidelines and standards related to ministries, commissions, departments, offices and committees under the Ministry of Land Management, Cooperatives and Poverty Alleviation and the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration.

Responding to a question from Bhuwan Bahadur Sunar, the Finance Minister said the respective ministries may transfer budgets as required.

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