Industrial Hemp Cultivation Now Legal in Turkey Under State Control
Industrial Hemp Cultivation Officially Legalized in Turkey
Turkey has introduced a new regulation from the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, officially legalizing the cultivation of hemp under strict state control. The regulation has been published in the country’s Official Gazette and is now in effect.
Scope of the New Rules
The regulation covers all stages of production — from sowing and cultivation to processing and final use. Its main goal is to develop a legal agro-industrial sector while preventing illegal circulation.
Permitted Uses
Hemp cultivation is allowed exclusively for industrial and agricultural purposes, including:
- Fiber production
- Seed use
- Stem processing
Important: Any other use of the plant without a license is prohibited and considered a violation of the law.
Authorized Provinces
Hemp cultivation is permitted in 21 designated Turkish provinces:
- Amasya, Antalya, Bartın, Burdur, Çorum, İzmir, Karabük, Kastamonu, Kayseri, Konya, Kütahya, Malatya, Ordu, Rize, Samsun, Sinop, Sivas, Tokat, Uşak, Yozgat, Zonguldak.
The selection of these provinces is based on agricultural suitability and the need for controlled, centralized oversight.
Medical Hemp: Special Regulations
Note: Medical hemp is subject to stricter requirements. Its cultivation is allowed only in licensed, secured areas, including:
- Afyon Alkaloidleri factory
- Organized agricultural zones
- Licensed and approved facilities by the Turkish Ministry of Health
Control and Security
The regulation introduces a comprehensive dual control system to ensure compliance:
- Digital Monitoring: Tracking of all production stages.
- Physical Inspections: Regular on-site checks by authorities.
This system is designed to prevent illegal use and leakage of products into the unregulated market.
Applications of Legal Hemp
Legally cultivated hemp can be used in various industries, promoting economic diversification:
- Cosmetics industry
- Dietary supplements
- Health and wellness products
Objective: The regulation aims to promote sustainable agriculture and a transparent market under full government supervision.
Conclusion
By implementing this framework, Turkey takes a significant step toward structuring a promising agricultural sector. The move balances the potential for economic growth in fiber, seed, and wellness industries with stringent safety and control concerns.
