Lesotho has taken another decisive regulatory step in strengthening its cannabis industry with the publication of Legal Notice No. 155 of 2025: Drugs of Abuse (Cannabis) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025, released on 7 November 2025. The amendments refine the import–export permit requirements, introduce stricter laboratory testing obligations, and significantly revise licence and renewal fees across the sector. GG93
These changes reflect the government’s intention to tighten compliance, ensure proper oversight of cannabis-based activities, and align regulatory fees with the economic realities of a rapidly evolving market.
1. Clearer Rules for Import and Export Permits
One of the most important amendments appears in Regulation 25, which now requires any operator intending to import or export cannabis or cannabis products for commercial purposes to:
- Apply for a permit under sections 14 and 15 of the Act, using Form B of Schedule I, and
- Pay the prescribed fee under the updated Schedule II.
2. Stricter Oversight by the Narcotics Bureau
A notable addition to Regulation 33 obliges the Narcotics Bureau to formally endorse destruction certificates and export permits as proof that operators comply with statutory and regulatory obligations.
This step strengthens enforcement and helps prevent regulatory gaps by ensuring that every destruction or export action carries an official compliance confirmation from the Bureau.
For the first time, the regulations introduce a dedicated pathway for licensed laboratories and operators conducting analytical or stability testing. They must now apply for a permit and submit detailed information, including:
- A full description of the cannabis material,
- Quantities, strain data,
- Number of analytical tests required, and
- Confirmation that samples align with recognised sampling procedures.
This expanded requirement ensures stricter chain-of-custody, transparency in testing, and alignment with international standards for medical and scientific cannabis.
3. Complete Overhaul of Cannabis Licence Fees
The 2025 amendments substantially revise the financial obligations of cannabis operators.
New Licence Fees (Schedule II)
Key fees now include:
- Cultivation Licence — M100,000
- Manufacturing Licence — M100,000
- Testing Licence — M100,000
- Operator Licence — M400,000
- Research Licence — M50,000
- Transportation Licence — M40,000
- Storage Licence — M10,000
- Supply Licence — M40,000 GG93
These revised fees reflect a major upward adjustment and will significantly impact the cost of entry and ongoing operations in the sector.
Updated Renewal Fees (Section 21)
Renewal costs have also increased, for example:
- Cultivation, Manufacturing, and Testing each now renew at M75,000,
- Operator renewals at M300,000,
- Research renewals at M40,000,
- Supply renewals at M30,000.
Other Administrative Fees
Operators must also budget for additional costs, such as:
- Annual Inspection — M25,000
- Change of Location — M35,000
- Amendment of Information — M5,000
- Import/Export Permits — M1,000 (commercial) or M5,000 (medical/scientific programmes)
4. What These Amendments Mean for the Cannabis Industry
Higher Compliance and Financial Thresholds
The increased fees and detailed permit requirements set a higher barrier to entry, meaning only financially stable and compliant businesses will be able to participate.
Better Regulatory Oversight
The involvement of the Narcotics Bureau and the enhanced documentation requirements reduce the risk of diversion, misuse, or informal trade.
Greater Certainty for Investors
A clearer regulatory framework improves predictability, which may attract serious investors seeking a controlled and professionally managed cannabis environment.
Impact on Small-Scale Operators
The steep licence increases may be prohibitive for smaller local cultivators, raising concerns about inclusivity and equitable participation.
5. Conclusion
The 2025 Amendment Regulations represent a decisive move by Lesotho to consolidate its position as Africa’s pioneer in regulated cannabis production. By tightening compliance, redefining permit processes, and increasing licence fees, the government signals its commitment to a more controlled, scientifically-driven, and globally aligned cannabis industry.
Businesses operating or entering the sector must now reassess their compliance frameworks, financial models, and operational readiness to meet the new legal standards.