Yes, CBD oil is legal in Costa Rica under strict conditions. The Ministry of Health regulates it as a non-psychoactive product, requiring THC content below 0.2% and registration for import or sale. Recent 2026 amendments to the Reglamento sobre Productos Naturales mandate third-party lab testing and traceability for compliance.
Key Regulations for CBD Oil in Costa Rica
- THC Threshold: Products must contain ≤0.2% THC, verified by ISO-certified laboratories. Exceeding this limit classifies the product as a controlled substance under Ley 8261.
- Registration Requirement: Importers and distributors must obtain authorization from the Dirección de Regulación de Productos de Interés Sanitario (DRPIS) before market entry.
- Labeling Standards: Packages must include CBD concentration, THC percentage, batch number, and a disclaimer stating “No approved therapeutic claims.” Mislabeling risks fines up to ₡5 million (≈$9,000 USD).
Importation Nuances: Personal-use quantities (≤30g) are permitted for travelers, but commercial shipments require prior DRPIS approval. The 2026 Circular 001-DRPIS tightened oversight, aligning Costa Rica with EU standards while maintaining its sovereign regulatory framework. Violations may trigger criminal liability under Ley 8261 for unauthorized psychoactive substances.