The Cannabis Licensing Authority (CLA) in Jamaica has officially launched its Medical Cannabis Special Permit Programmes, aimed at expanding access and inclusion for traditional ganja growers within the country’s legal medical cannabis industry.
The initiative will operate under recently gazetted regulations governing the CLA’s functions. Cabinet has approved the promulgation of the Dangerous Drugs (Cannabis Licensing) (Interim) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025, which introduce a series of changes intended to strengthen Jamaica’s licensing framework and widen participation in the regulated sector.
The programmes were formally launched at the AC Hotel by Marriott Kingston on Thursday, April 16.
Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Delano Seiveright, said the cannabis industry represents more than an emerging commercial sector, describing it as a tool for economic empowerment, job creation, scientific advancement and social equity.
He said the Government is working to develop a regulatory system that is “transparent, efficient, and supportive of businesses,” while balancing public safety with innovation and investment.
Seiveright added that reforms are intended to remove unnecessary barriers and create opportunities for entrepreneurs, farmers, researchers and investors. He also said the Government is engaging international partners to position Jamaica as a competitive player in the global cannabis market.
He noted that with proper standards and quality assurance, Jamaica could expand its reach internationally, while maintaining strong regulatory oversight to prevent misuse and protect consumers.
“These amendments provide Jamaicans with alternative and sustainable avenues for enterprise beyond traditional industries,” he said, adding that the changes also support the development of roles across the cannabis value chain, including cultivation specialists, trimmers, packagers and extraction technicians.
CLA Chief Executive Officer Farrah Blake highlighted several key amendments, including the introduction of a special community permit allowing traditional and small-scale farmers to enter the industry collectively.
She said the permit significantly reduces financial barriers and provides technical support through the Cannabis Specialisation Unit. Importantly, she noted, there are no fees attached to the permit.
Blake also outlined a cultivators’ transitional special permit, which allows small farmers to enter the regulated space and transition over a two-year period toward full cultivation status.
She said applicants will have access to technical support and the licensed market during the transition period, again without fees.
Another amendment introduces identification cards for employees within the sector, allowing smoother movement between employers and helping formalise employment while police records are processed.
Blake also explained changes to licence extensions, allowing full operations during extension periods, including the ability to sell crops—something previously restricted.
Standardisation of licence tenure was also introduced, with all authorisations now set at three years instead of one for cultivation licences, reducing administrative burdens and improving business planning.
Additional amendments standardise fence height requirements across cultivation tiers at six feet, aimed at reducing costs and easing compliance, particularly after natural disasters.
A new provision also allows licensed retailers to deliver cannabis products directly to customers, which the CLA says will improve market access, strengthen brand loyalty and provide convenience for clients.
The CLA says it expects the reforms to improve operational efficiency, increase participation and further strengthen Jamaica’s international cannabis brand.
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