Cannabis in Antigua & Barbuda: Laws & Tourist Guide

Current Cannabis Laws

Antigua and Barbuda’s Misuse of Drugs (Amendment) Act of 2018 made a clear statement: possession of 15 grams or less of cannabis is not an offence. Period. Not a fine, not a ticket — simply not illegal.

The law also made it explicitly lawful to cultivate up to 4 cannabis plants per household. And in a significant social justice measure, prior convictions for 15 grams or less were automatically expunged.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne called cannabis “part of the culture of the country” when announcing the reform — a rare acknowledgment from a sitting head of state in the Caribbean.

Medical Marijuana

Antigua doesn’t have a formal medical dispensary system yet. A Cannabis Authority has been in development, and a full Cannabis Bill for a regulated commercial industry was introduced around 2020, but implementation has been gradual.

The Rastafari community received specific recognition in the reform process.

For Tourists

The good news: Antigua’s decriminalization is among the most straightforward in the Caribbean. Fifteen grams or less is simply not an offence — for anyone, resident or visitor.

The limitation: there’s no legal retail. You can’t walk into a shop and buy cannabis. The 4-plant home grow provision is for residents. And public consumption is prohibited — no smoking in bars, restaurants, or tourist establishments.

If you find yourself in possession of a small amount, you’re within the law. Just keep it private, keep it under 15g, and don’t try to buy in tourist areas where you might encounter inflated prices or unwanted attention.

Recent News & Changes

• December 2018: Misuse of Drugs (Amendment) Act decriminalizes 15g; allows 4 plants; expunges prior records
• ~2020: Cannabis Bill for regulated commercial industry introduced
• Ongoing: Cannabis Authority establishment in progress; Rastafari rights recognition