Weed in Xizhi: Cannabis Laws and Culture in New Taipei’s Growing District

Xizhi, a district in New Taipei City, is known for its rapid urban development, tech industry presence, and scenic mountains. Located just east of Taipei, it serves as a commuter hub for many professionals working in the capital. However, despite its modern infrastructure and international influences, Taiwan maintains some of the strictest cannabis laws in Asia, and Xizhi is no exception.

While many countries around the world are moving toward cannabis decriminalization or legalization, Taiwan continues to enforce severe penalties for marijuana-related offenses. This means that possession, use, or distribution of cannabis in Xizhi can lead to harsh legal consequences, including imprisonment.

Cannabis Laws in Taiwan and Xizhi

Under Taiwan’s Narcotics Hazard Prevention Act, cannabis is classified as a Category 2 narcotic, putting it in the same category as MDMA and amphetamines. This classification reflects the government’s zero-tolerance approach to drug use, which applies across all of Taiwan, including Xizhi.

Key Cannabis Laws in Xizhi

• Possession is illegal: Even a small amount of cannabis can result in heavy fines, mandatory rehab, or jail time.
• Use is punishable anywhere: Unlike in some countries where personal cannabis use is tolerated at home, Taiwan strictly prohibits consumption in all locations.
• Selling or distributing cannabis is a major offense: Drug trafficking charges can result in prison sentences ranging from seven years to life.
• Testing positive for THC can lead to legal consequences: Even if no cannabis is physically found, a drug test showing THC in your system can result in mandatory rehab or legal trouble.

Penalties for Cannabis Use

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

Is There a Cannabis Scene in Xizhi?

Due to Taiwan’s strict drug laws, Xizhi does not have an open or legal cannabis culture like in the U.S., Canada, or parts of Europe. There are no legal dispensaries, cannabis cafes, or social clubs, and police actively monitor and enforce drug laws.

However, as in other parts of Taiwan, a small underground cannabis scene exists, especially among students, expats, and young professionals who have been exposed to cannabis culture abroad. Despite this, the risks of getting caught with cannabis in Xizhi are extremely high, and even first-time offenders can face severe punishments, including a criminal record that affects travel and employment opportunities.

CBD in Xizhi: Is It Legal?

CBD (cannabidiol), which is widely legal in many countries, exists in a legal gray area in Taiwan. While pure CBD is not classified as a narcotic, many CBD products contain small traces of THC, which can result in legal issues. Importing or selling CBD requires government approval, and some shipments have been seized by customs officials in the past.

The Future of Cannabis in Xizhi

Despite global trends toward cannabis legalization, Taiwan shows no signs of relaxing its strict anti-cannabis stance. The government continues to enforce harsh penalties, and public opinion remains largely against legalization. While some Asian countries, such as Thailand, have started moving toward legalization, Taiwan remains one of the strictest nations in Asia when it comes to cannabis enforcement.

For now, the safest course of action for anyone in Xizhi is to completely avoid cannabis. The legal consequences—including jail time, fines, and mandatory rehab—are too severe. While many parts of the world are changing their approach to cannabis laws, Taiwan remains firmly against any form of legalization or decriminalization.