Puerto Rico's Medical Cannabis Market Now Exceeds 130 Dispensaries
Puerto Rico's medical cannabis program continues to grow with over 130 licensed dispensaries operating across the island.
The Caribbean’s largest dispensary network
Puerto Rico’s medical cannabis market continues to mature, with over 130 licensed dispensaries now operating across the island. San Juan alone has 79 dispensaries — making it one of the densest cannabis retail markets per capita in any US jurisdiction.
The market has been growing steadily since Act 42-2017 codified the medical cannabis program, and Regulation 9038 opened the door to tourist access by recognizing out-of-state medical cards.
Tourist access remains strong
Visitors with a valid medical cannabis card from their home US state can obtain a 30-day temporary tourist card through any licensed dispensary. The process is quick and straightforward, making Puerto Rico one of the most accessible medical cannabis destinations in the Caribbean.
What This Means
Puerto Rico’s scale — 130+ dispensaries, established regulations, tourist reciprocity — sets the benchmark for what a mature Caribbean cannabis market looks like. As other Caribbean nations develop their frameworks, Puerto Rico’s model offers both lessons and proof that regulated medical cannabis can be a significant economic driver.
Recurring recreational legalization bills have been introduced but haven’t passed yet. If adult-use ever comes to Puerto Rico, the infrastructure is already in place.