OUR VISSION
We see a world of safety, innovation and sustainability in the regulation of substances to protect lives and livelihoods
WHO ARE WE AND WHAT DO WE DO?
The Regulated Substances Authority (RSA), established by the Regulated Substances Act No.26 of 2023 as a government initiative, oversees the regulation of various substances in Saint Lucia.
RSA VALUES
Innovation
Inclusivity
Efficiency
Accessiblity
Proficiency
Commitment
FAQ On the Cannabis & Industrial Hemp Bill
WHAT WILL THE BILL CHANGE?
The Cannabis and Industrial Hemp Bill permits licenses for growing, manufacturing, testing, transporting and selling cannabis. Unlicensed commercial activity will remain illegal. The RSA will oversee and regulated the industry which will include the provision of licenses.
WILL THE BILL ALLOW ME TO GROW OR IMPORT MY OWN CANNABIS?
Individuals may grow up to 4 plants for personal use, but they cannot sell cannabis, exceed 4 plants, or import/export cannabis or its products without a license.
Growing 4 to 12 plants is a Class A offense. Penalties depend on whether the amount exceeds 12 cannabis plants which is a Commercial Quantity, or exceed 75 cannabis plants which is a Trafficable Quantity, under the Bill.
WHAT IS A CENTRAL TRADING ENTITY?
All locally grown cannabis must be sold to or approved by a Central Trading Entity (CTE), which handles buying, importing, exporting, and selling to dispensaries.
HOW WILL I BE ABLE TO GET CANNABIS?
High-potency cannabis (Class 2) requires a doctor’s prescription and pharmacy dispensing, while low-potency (Class 1) is available at licensed dispensaries without a prescription.
WILL PEOPLE BE ABLE TO SMOKE ANYWHERE?
Consumption of cannabis by smoking, vaping or otherwise must be done only in private or in places licensed for consumption.
HOW WILL THE YOUNG PERSONS BE SAFEGUARDED?
Access to Class 1 cannabis is restricted to those 21 and older, with penalties for providing it to minors unless prescribed medicinally. Offenders face fines up to $50,000 or two years in prison.
WHAT IS SYNTHETIC CANNABIS AND IS IT PERMITTED?
Synthetic Cannabinoids/cannabis products are artificially produced. Synthetic cannabis products or products made with synthetic cannabinoids are strictly prohibited
WHAT WILL BE REQUIRED TO BE A LICENCED CULTIVATOR?
Applications will be made to the RSA for review and approval by the Board. An applicant must show that they have access to land and can meet the standards and requirements for cultivation set by the RSA.
Have More Questions Contact Us Directly
We Are Available via email @ info@rsa.govt.lc or mesage us directly on WhatsApp by clicking below