Colombia has a long history of cannabis cultivation, and the country is now legalizing the plant for medical and scientific purposes. Medellin, the second-largest city in Colombia, has a relaxed attitude towards cannabis. Colombia also hosts the Expomedeweed trade show, which showcases the latest cannabis products and innovations.

Medical and Recreational Cannabis – What is Legal in Colombia?

In 2015, President Juan Santos signed legislation that legalized medical cannabis production for domestic use and exports. Medical cannabis patients in Colombia need a prescription from a doctor. And clearly this law that permits the use of medical cannabis in Colombia does not permit recreational use.

However, in 2012 the Colombian government legalized the possession of up to 20 grams (0.7 ounces) of cannabis for personal use. And in 2015, the Colombian Supreme Court ruled that it is legal for any individual to grow up to 20 personal use cannabis plants. But this doesn’t mean you can grow and sell, it is only for personal use.

Colombia looks to become the world’s supplier of legal pot

Decree 1844 in late 2018 for cannabis legalization in Colombia

In addition, President Ivan Duque signed Decree 1844 in late 2018, which bans people from carrying even small amounts of marijuana in public. This is even though the counts have said such possession shouldn’t be punished.

Also, in June 2019, Colombia’s Constitutional Court ruled that portions of President Iván Duque’s Police Code, which banned public cannabis consumption among other things is unconstitutional. The court decision means that people are again allowed to smoke pot and drink beer in public, according to the constitution. President Ivan Duque said he “accepts and respects” the ruling.

In addition, Duque said the police would continue to confiscate drugs and impose penalties on those carrying drugs.

The decree in 2018 enables Colombian police to search people and confiscate any drugs they have on them including marijuana. Offenders can also be fined up to 208,000 pesos or less if a class is taken. But there are no criminal consequences for possession of up to 20 grams (0.7 ounces).

Finally, Decree 811 of 2021 made visible uses of cannabis, in addition to medicinal ones, such as the manufacture of fibers, beverages, food, biofuels and dietary supplements, which could be produced in the country.

Penalties in Colombia for Possession and Trafficking

So, what happens if you are caught carrying more than 20 grams of marijuana in Colombia? Or are caught selling marijuana?

Where to Get Cannabis in Medellin

Getting cannabis in Medellin is a very easy task as you can find it literally on every step. Like we already mentioned, the city is populated with many tourists and expats which means that you should check the backpacker hostels or make friends with westerners. The best way to score high-quality cannabis is by befriending a local who probably knows people who can help you. If you just walk around the city, you can expect to be approached a few times by people who will offer you some cannabis. It’s a good deal, but be careful when dealing with street dealers. Never give your money in front and always check the quality before buying.

Cannabis Prices

Cannabis in Medellin is usually grown outdoors in surrounding villages and you can’t expect the highest quality, but you will always get huge quantities for the extremely low price. For example, you can expect to pay around $50 for an ounce of medium quality cannabis. It’s the price if you have some connection, but if you don’t, then you get an ounce for a much lower price from street dealers. The quality isn’t the best though, but it will give you a high.