Travellers bound for Singapore from Canada can be tested for cannabis

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While cannabis is now legal within Canada’s borders, would-be travellers are being reminded that use of the drug in many parts of the world is still very much illegal.

On Wednesday, for example, the government of Canada issued a warning around Singapore’s legal approaches to the drug.

In a statement online, Singapore’s Central Narcotics Bureau said it is “aware of ongoing discussions in some countries on the safety and legality of products (including food) containing tetrahydrocannabinol[1] (THC) for recreational and medical use.”

Cannabis is listed in the country as a Class A controlled drug in the First Schedule of the Misuse of Drugs Act (MDA).

“The MDA prescribes stiff penalties for the trafficking, possession, consumption, and import or export of controlled substances, including cannabis and cannabis products,” the statement reads.

But for Singapore residents who believe cannabis use is okay while visiting Canada could be in very real trouble once they get back home.

Singapore said that under the MDA, “any Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident found to have abused controlled drugs overseas will be treated as if he/she had abused drugs in Singapore.”

It added that the CNB conducts enforcement checks at Singapore’s checkpoints and “will take action against those found to have consumed drugs overseas.”

In response, the government of Canada tweeted a reminder of the legal percussions people may face if they choose to use cannabis and then head to Singapore.

Custom officers can request a drug test at the point of entry to #Singapore. If you test positive for drugs, you can be arrested and prosecuted, even if the drugs were consumed prior to your arrival in the country. https://t.co/abesNz8fQv

— travel.gc.ca (@TravelGoC) October 31, 2018

“The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad.” the government says on a page about travelling to the country. “Custom officers can request a drug test on any traveller.”

That being said, “The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided. If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.”

Singapore’s stance on cannabis use as it relates to travelling to and from Canada is a similar one adopted by other countries including Japan, South Korea, and China.

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