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A draft cannabis law in St. Lucia aims to open up the markets for both marijuana and industrial hemp. The proposed legislation, recently released for public review, outlines regulations for the farming, processing, and sales of hemp products from both types of cannabis.
Emma Hippolyte, Minister for Commerce in the tiny Caribbean island nation, said she expects the bill to be presented to Parliament and enacted by the end of the first quarter of 2025, barring unforeseen pushback during a public consultation period that ends Feb. 7.
The proposed measure, which aims to address past injustices, support marginalized communities, and create new economic opportunities, reflects growing public support for a regulated cannabis industry based on input from advocacy groups, religious communities, and the general public.
‘A model’ cannabis bill
At a media briefing on Monday, Hippolyte stressed the importance of public participation in refining the Cannabis and Industrial Hemp Bill. “It is very important for us because we have worked quite a bit to try to get a model bill,” she said. The minister also underscored the role of the newly established Regulatory Steering Committee (RSC) in guiding the development of the island’s cannabis industry.
Specific provisions related to industrial hemp include:
Regulation of cultivation: The bill outlines guidelines for the cultivation of industrial hemp, specifying licensing requirements, permissible strains, and cultivation practices to ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
Processing and manufacturing: Provisions are included for the processing of hemp into various products, establishing standards for facilities, equipment, and procedures to maintain product integrity and consumer safety.
Commercialization and sales: The legislation details the framework for the sale and distribution of hemp products, including labeling requirements, permissible product types, and restrictions to prevent misuse.
Research and development: The bill encourages research into industrial hemp applications, supporting innovation and the development of new products and markets.
Rastafari leader cheers
Aron Alexander, president of the Iyanola Council for the Advancement of Rastafari (ICAR), hailed the progress as a significant milestone.
“It took us 50 years to get here – 50 years of advocacy, protests, and keeping the pressure on politicians to address cannabis decriminalization and legalization,” the Rastafari leader told the St. Lucia Times. “We’ve been brutalized, jailed, murdered, and our livelihoods destroyed because of prohibition. While we don’t seek to benefit disproportionately, we must be key stakeholders in this new regime.”
ICAR’s advocacy led to an agreement with the government to establish a Rastafari Development Fund, supported by a percentage of cannabis-related tax revenue. Alexander emphasized the need for strong representation on the board managing the fund to ensure its impact on the Rastafari community.
Softening on drug laws
Historically, St. Lucia enforced strict penalties for cannabis-related offenses under the Dangerous Drugs Act. Possession, even in small amounts, could result in heavy fines and imprisonment, while cultivation and trafficking carried even harsher penalties, including long jail terms and significant financial fines.
These laws disproportionately impacted marginalized groups, particularly the Rastafarian community, whose religious and cultural practices include the use of cannabis. Young offenders also faced lasting consequences, such as criminal records that hindered employment and travel opportunities. These enforcement practices contributed to prison overcrowding and fueled public criticism.
In recent years, St. Lucia has shifted its approach toward cannabis reform, recognizing the social and economic costs of these harsh penalties. Public sentiment, advocacy from affected communities, and global trends have influenced the government to pursue more lenient policies, such as decriminalization of small amounts of cannabis and, soon, the development of a regulated cannabis and hemp industry.
Farming sector challenged
Despite facing challenges in recent years, the island’s agricultural sector plays a crucial role in its economy, with around 18% of the land dedicated to farming. Farming practices are largely based on small-scale operations, with many farms under five acres supporting subsistence needs and commercial activities. Efforts are ongoing to promote sustainable farming practices and explore new markets for St. Lucia’s agricultural products.
The island’s farming landscape is diverse, with key crops including bananas, coconuts and cocoa beans. But the agricultural sector has faced challenges such as reduced competitiveness in the banana market and a need for diversification.
With a population of approximately 140,000, St. Lucia spans 238 sq m (616 sq km).
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