High Time for Regulation: Uruguayan Government Markets Marijuana to Combat Drug Trafficking

Over the next few weeks, 16 pharmacies throughout Uruguay will begin to sell marijuana. It is the first country in the world whose government not only legalizes consumption; but also regulates, packages, and markets the drug.

Uruguay is using this public policy to combat drug trafficking and black market sales.

For tourists hoping to take advantage, there is a catch: only native Uruguayans and permanent residents can buy it, and must register with the Institute of Cannabis Regulation and Control prior to making any purchases. Only 4,539 people out of an estimated 150,000 users have registered so far; users include 6,908 independent growers and 63 membership clubs.

Approved pharmacies, according to the new law, will have exclusive rights to handle retail marijuana sales. Authorization for pharmacies to sell cannabis – initially expected by the end of 2014 – was postponed several times.

Participating pharmacies will have a device to scan fingerprints of registered users. This method guarantees the confidentiality of purchase and removes the need for users to bring identification.

The product will be sold in 5-gram bags, and each gram will cost the equivalent of 1.30 dollars - much cheaper than the black market. Each person may purchase up to 10 grams per week, equivalent to roughly 12 cigarettes.

Under former President Pepe Mujica Uruguay became the first country to legalize the cultivation, distribution, and consumption of marijuana in 2013. Unlike in other countries, where growers maintain autonomy, the Uruguayan government will supervise all parts of the process.

At: http://www.thebubble.com/high-time-for-regulation-uruguayan-government-markets-marijuana-to-combat-drug-trafficking/