As the crackdown on drug trafficking ramps up, what steps are states taking to control drugs and alcohol? Since these substances are regulated differently, let's dive into how different places are handling them.
Zero tolerance for drugs in China
China's zero-tolerance drug policy means strict enforcement and heightened scrutiny of travelers from countries like Canada or Thailand, where some drugs are legal. The policy drew international attention when Jochen Sengpiehl, a Volkswagen executive, was detained after testing positive for cocaine upon his return from Thailand. He faced a 10-day detention and was then expelled from China.
This incident underscores the risks for expats using drugs in China, where penalties range from detention and fines to expulsion and, in severe cases, even the death penalty for possessing more than 50 grams of any drug. Simple possession is equated with trafficking, and penalties apply regardless of whether the drugs were consumed within the country.
Moreover, the crackdown extends to bars and clubs in major cities, with increased police checks following numerous reports. Even allowing drug use in one's home can attract severe penalties. Additionally, China has banned all products containing cannabidiol (CBD), including in food and cosmetics, treating them as narcotics with penalties of up to life imprisonment for production or trafficking.
Alcohol is allowed
Although drug possession and use carry severe penalties, alcohol is readily available for purchase. There are no restrictions on its consumption or possession. However, penalties still apply for alcohol-related offenses; individuals found intoxicated in public can face imprisonment for public disorder or indecency. Several expatriates have been jailed for such offenses. Moreover, selling alcohol to minors remains strictly prohibited.
Alcohol and drugs: Risks for expats
In many countries, alcohol possession and consumption are legal, but selling alcohol to minors is forbidden. Travelers must adhere to specific regulations when bringing alcohol into a foreign country—for instance, Canada offers a .
Unlike drugs, alcohol is not typically considered an illicit substance and is integral to many cultures: French wine and champagne, Japanese sake and beer, Korean soju and makgeolli, Caribbean rum, and Scottish whiskey are all deeply embedded in their respective traditions, often symbolizing celebration and social gatherings.
However, public disturbances linked to alcohol use, such as excessive consumption, drunk driving, and aggressive behavior, are punishable offenses. Depending on the country, expatriates could face fines, imprisonment, and even deportation. Expats must remember their vulnerable status; even a misstep like a public disturbance can threaten their residency, such as being denied renewal of their residence permit.
Countries that prohibit or restrict alcohol consumption
Alcohol is viewed differently across the globe, especially in Muslim-majority countries where its consumption is often heavily restricted or outright banned. In countries like Kuwait, Iran, the emirate of Sharjah in the UAE, Afghanistan, Mauritania, and Saudi Arabia, alcohol is completely prohibited. However, there have been some recent shifts; for instance, Riyadh reportedly opened a supermarket selling alcohol a few months ago, exclusively for foreign diplomats and under strict surveillance. While the Saudi authorities have not commented on this development, analysts see it as a sign of cautious openness aimed at appealing to influential foreigners and curbing alcohol smuggling. Traditionally, diplomats in these regions have been permitted to import alcohol in limited quantities through a special service.
The approach to alcohol varies even within countries with significant Muslim populations. In Nigeria and Sudan, alcohol prohibitions apply only to Muslims, allowing non-Muslims to consume alcohol freely. Pakistan presents a more complex scenario: despite an official ban on alcohol, local production has been tolerated for years, and the country even operates its own brewery, contributing notably to its economy. Officially, only adult non-Muslims are allowed to purchase and consume alcohol, but in practice, it's known that the Muslim elite are also significant consumers.
Alcohol prohibition: Easing restrictions in some Muslim countries
Several Muslim countries are gradually relaxing their alcohol regulations, particularly to attract foreign tourists. For example, in Dubai, non-Muslims aged 21 and over are allowed to purchase alcohol in licensed establishments and consume it in designated areas like hotels, bars, and restaurants. Similarly, in Morocco, non-Muslims can buy and drink alcohol in authorized venues. In a notable move, the Moroccan Ministry of Justice proposed legislation in 2022 to extend these privileges to Muslim citizens as well.
Despite these changes, it's important to note that in all Muslim countries, the penalties for violating Islamic alcohol laws remain stringent, potentially including severe punishments up to the death penalty.
Drug use: From zero tolerance to marginal exceptions
There is a consensus among nations for a strict policy against drug use, with international efforts organized to combat trafficking. However, not all countries view drug policy the same way: some maintain stringent anti-drug laws, while others have begun to tolerate the use of cannabis or differentiate between therapeutic and recreational use. Expatriates must be well-informed of the local drug laws before traveling to ensure they comply with the varying regulations.
Countries legalizing cannabis use
Several countries have recently moved to decriminalize cannabis. Among them are Canada, Thailand, Malta, and Luxembourg, with Germany joining the list as of April 1, 2024. In these countries, expatriates can now legally purchase up to 25 grams of cannabis per day. Personal cultivation has also been decriminalized. Malta, Canada, and Luxembourg extend this leniency to include the cultivation and recreational use of cannabis as well.
The Netherlands, long recognized for its liberal stance on "soft" drugs, formalized its policies in December 2023. Although many visitors previously believed the purchase and use of drugs were fully legal, the new law now officially regulates these activities, albeit on an experimental basis, with personal cultivation still being prohibited.
However, Thailand reversed its stance in February 2024, just over a year after decriminalizing recreational cannabis use, restricting its use to medical purposes only.
Focus on Canada
Canada has decriminalized the use of cannabis within its borders, but it remains illegal to enter or exit the country with cannabis, including any extracts contained in food products or cannabidiol-based items. The sole exception is for medical cannabis, which must be authorized by . Exempt individuals must declare their cannabis possessions at the border through the Canada Border Services Agency to avoid legal consequences.
Carrying illegal drugs across the Canadian border is strictly prohibited. The Canadian government emphasizes that neither ignorance of the laws nor being a foreigner is an acceptable excuse for violations. Foreign nationals caught with illegal substances can face imprisonment ranging from 3 to 7 years, although penalties may be less severe for a first offense.
Alcohol and drugs Abroad: What expats should beware of
Expatriates should never assume that ignorance of a foreign country's laws will protect them; being unaware of the law is not a valid defense. Expats need to be particularly cautious in "sensitive" environments like bars and nightclubs.
Carrying an open bottle of alcohol in public may lead to penalties. Even in places without explicit restrictions, it's wise to observe and mimic local behaviors. In countries that prohibit or restrict alcohol use, it's crucial for expats to consume alcohol only in legally permitted areas.
Extra caution is necessary with products containing cannabidiol (CBD), such as candies, teas, creams, and e-cigarettes. These items are increasingly popular but can be classified as drugs in many places. To avoid legal complications, it's best to avoid traveling with these products altogether.
