Weed in Keelung: Cannabis Laws and Culture in Taiwan’s Port City

Keelung, a coastal city known for its bustling harbor, night markets, and rainy climate, is an important part of Taiwan’s transportation and trade network. However, when it comes to cannabis, Keelung—like the rest of Taiwan—has some of the strictest drug laws in Asia. While many countries are moving toward decriminalization or legalization, Taiwan continues to enforce a zero-tolerance policy on cannabis.

Cannabis Laws in Taiwan and Keelung

Taiwan’s Narcotics Hazard Prevention Act classifies cannabis as a Category 2 narcotic, putting it in the same category as MDMA and amphetamines. This means that any involvement with cannabis—whether possession, consumption, sale, or cultivation—is a serious criminal offense.

Key Cannabis Laws in Keelung

• Possession is illegal: Even a small amount of cannabis can lead to significant fines, mandatory rehab, or prison time.
• Use is punishable, even in private: Unlike in some countries where personal cannabis use is tolerated, Taiwan strictly prohibits it in all settings.
• Selling or distributing cannabis is a severe crime: Trafficking carries heavy penalties, including seven years to life in prison.
• Testing positive for THC can lead to legal action: Even if no cannabis is found, a drug test showing THC in your system can result in mandatory rehab or drug education programs.

Penalties for Cannabis Use

• Possession for personal use: Up to three years in prison and/or substantial fines.
• Trafficking or distribution: Seven years to life in prison, depending on the amount.
• Testing positive for THC: Authorities may require rehab or drug education programs.

Is There a Cannabis Scene in Keelung?

Because of Taiwan’s strict drug policies, Keelung does not have a legal or visible cannabis culture like in parts of the U.S. or Europe. There are no dispensaries, legal cannabis shops, or social clubs, and police actively crack down on illegal drug activity.

That being said, there is a small underground scene, especially among younger people and expats who have experienced cannabis culture abroad. However, authorities in Taiwan do not take drug offenses lightly, and the risks of getting caught are extremely high. Even first-time offenders can face harsh punishments, including jail time or mandatory rehab.

CBD in Keelung: Legal or Not?

CBD (cannabidiol), which is widely available in many countries, remains in a legal gray area in Taiwan. While pure CBD itself is not classified as a narcotic, many CBD products contain trace amounts of THC, which could lead to legal trouble. Importing or selling CBD products requires government approval, and unauthorized shipments have been seized at customs.

The Future of Cannabis in Keelung

Despite the global trend toward cannabis legalization and decriminalization, Taiwan remains strict on cannabis. The government shows no signs of relaxing its drug policies, and public opinion is still largely against legalization. While places like Thailand have recently moved toward legalization, Taiwan remains one of the strictest countries regarding marijuana laws.

For now, the safest approach for residents and visitors in Keelung is to completely avoid cannabis. The legal risks—including fines, imprisonment, and mandatory rehab—are simply too high. While attitudes toward cannabis are evolving in other parts of the world, Taiwan continues to maintain a firm anti-cannabis stance.