Why it matters: The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has released a reminder that cannabis cannot be taken across the border between Canada and the US. The statement reads: “Bringing cannabis across the border in any form, including oils containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or cannabidiol (CBD), without a permit or exemption authorized by Health Canada is a serious criminal offence subject to arrest and prosecution, despite the legalisation of cannabis in Canada. A medical prescription from a doctor does not count as Health Canada authorisation.”
What they are saying: The CBSA has also provided tips for those travelling over the border, including having travel documents handy and planning for border wait times. The Canadian Customs Act prohibits the movement of cannabis across the country’s border.
The big picture: Exemptions for cannabis import and export must be authorised by Health Canada and are issued only under limited conditions, such as for medical, scientific or industrial hemp purposes. Despite the warnings, many people are still caught trying to carry cannabis across the border.
What to watch: The CBSA will seize any illegal material transporting across the border. The agency serves to protect the safety and security of Canadians.
Your take: Legalisation of cannabis in Canada hasn’t made the transport of the drug over the border legal. People need to be aware of the rules and regulations surrounding cannabis when traveling across the border.
