Legal status in Papua New Guinea

Per-substance legal status for Papua New Guinea, from sourced statutes where available. Legal information, not legal advice; drug laws change, so confirm with the destination’s embassy or drug authority before you travel.

14 confirmed substances71 not individually verifiedLast updated July 14, 2026

Confirmed legal status

2C-B

Legal status: Controlled under the Controlled Substances Act 2021 (which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — the 2021 Act substantially increased penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking (specific terms and section numbers not pinned in this cell; confirm against the current statute); the maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment
Consequences if caught: 2C-B is controlled in Papua New Guinea under the Controlled Substances Act 2021. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated June 27, 2026

2C-B in Papua New Guinea, full detail →

Benzodiazepines

Legal status: Controlled under the Controlled Substances Act 2021 (which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — the 2021 Act substantially increased penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking (specific terms and section numbers not pinned in this cell; confirm against the current statute); the maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment
Consequences if caught: Benzodiazepines is controlled in Papua New Guinea under the Controlled Substances Act 2021. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated June 27, 2026

Benzodiazepines in Papua New Guinea, full detail →

Cannabis / THC

Legal status: Cannabis controlled under the Controlled Substances Act 2021 (which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — penalties for possession/dealing/trafficking increased under the 2021 Act (specific terms not pinned in this cell; confirm against the current statute); no legal recreational or medical regime; the maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment
Consequences if caught: Cannabis is controlled in Papua New Guinea under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, with no legal recreational regime. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated June 27, 2026

Cannabis / THC in Papua New Guinea, full detail →

Cocaine

Legal status: Controlled under the Controlled Substances Act 2021 (which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — the 2021 Act substantially increased penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking (specific terms and section numbers not pinned in this cell; confirm against the current statute); the maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment
Consequences if caught: Cocaine is controlled in Papua New Guinea under the Controlled Substances Act 2021. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated June 27, 2026

Cocaine in Papua New Guinea, full detail →

DMT

Legal status: Controlled under the Controlled Substances Act 2021 (which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — the 2021 Act substantially increased penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking (specific terms and section numbers not pinned in this cell; confirm against the current statute); the maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment
Consequences if caught: DMT is controlled in Papua New Guinea under the Controlled Substances Act 2021. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated June 27, 2026

DMT in Papua New Guinea, full detail →

Fentanyl

Legal status: Controlled under the Controlled Substances Act 2021 (which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — the 2021 Act substantially increased penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking (specific terms and section numbers not pinned in this cell; confirm against the current statute); the maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment
Consequences if caught: Fentanyl is controlled in Papua New Guinea under the Controlled Substances Act 2021. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated June 27, 2026

Fentanyl in Papua New Guinea, full detail →

GHB

Legal status: Controlled under the Controlled Substances Act 2021 (which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — the 2021 Act substantially increased penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking (specific terms and section numbers not pinned in this cell; confirm against the current statute); the maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment
Consequences if caught: GHB is controlled in Papua New Guinea under the Controlled Substances Act 2021. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated June 27, 2026

GHB in Papua New Guinea, full detail →

Heroin

Legal status: Controlled under the Controlled Substances Act 2021 (which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — the 2021 Act substantially increased penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking (specific terms and section numbers not pinned in this cell; confirm against the current statute); the maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment
Consequences if caught: Heroin is controlled in Papua New Guinea under the Controlled Substances Act 2021. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated June 27, 2026

Heroin in Papua New Guinea, full detail →

LSD

Legal status: Controlled under the Controlled Substances Act 2021 (which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — the 2021 Act substantially increased penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking (specific terms and section numbers not pinned in this cell; confirm against the current statute); the maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment
Consequences if caught: LSD is controlled in Papua New Guinea under the Controlled Substances Act 2021. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated June 27, 2026

LSD in Papua New Guinea, full detail →

MDMA

Legal status: Controlled under the Controlled Substances Act 2021 (which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — the 2021 Act substantially increased penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking (specific terms and section numbers not pinned in this cell; confirm against the current statute); the maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment
Consequences if caught: MDMA is controlled in Papua New Guinea under the Controlled Substances Act 2021. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated June 27, 2026

MDMA in Papua New Guinea, full detail →

Mescaline

Legal status: Controlled under the Controlled Substances Act 2021 (which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — the 2021 Act substantially increased penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking (specific terms and section numbers not pinned in this cell; confirm against the current statute); the maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment
Consequences if caught: Mescaline is controlled in Papua New Guinea under the Controlled Substances Act 2021. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated June 27, 2026

Mescaline in Papua New Guinea, full detail →

Methamphetamine

Legal status: Controlled under the Controlled Substances Act 2021 (which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — the 2021 Act substantially increased penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking (specific terms and section numbers not pinned in this cell; confirm against the current statute); the maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment
Consequences if caught: Methamphetamine is controlled in Papua New Guinea under the Controlled Substances Act 2021. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated June 27, 2026

Methamphetamine in Papua New Guinea, full detail →

PCP

Legal status: Controlled under the Controlled Substances Act 2021 (which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — the 2021 Act substantially increased penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking (specific terms and section numbers not pinned in this cell; confirm against the current statute); the maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment
Consequences if caught: PCP is controlled in Papua New Guinea under the Controlled Substances Act 2021. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated June 27, 2026

PCP in Papua New Guinea, full detail →

Psilocybin

Legal status: Controlled under the Controlled Substances Act 2021 (which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — the 2021 Act substantially increased penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking (specific terms and section numbers not pinned in this cell; confirm against the current statute); the maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment
Consequences if caught: Psilocybin is controlled in Papua New Guinea under the Controlled Substances Act 2021. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated June 27, 2026

Psilocybin in Papua New Guinea, full detail →

Not individually verified

For these 71 substances the governing national drug law is cited, but we have not verified that the substance specifically is scheduled under it. Treat them as unanswered, not as legal. Confirm with Papua New Guinea’s drug authority or your embassy.

1P-LSD

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for 1p lsd in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

2-FDCK

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for 2 fdck in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

25I-NBOMe

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for 25I-NBOMe in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated June 27, 2026

2C-E

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for 2c e in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

2C-I

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for 2C-I in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated June 27, 2026

2C-T-7

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for 2C-T-7 in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated June 27, 2026

3-MMC

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for 3 mmc in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

4-AcO-DMT

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for 4 aco dmt in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

4-HO-MET

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for 4 ho met in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

5-MeO-DMT (Bufo / Toad)

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for 5 meo dmt in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

6-APB

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for 6 apb in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH)

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for 7 hydroxymitragynine in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 13, 2026

Adderall

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for adderall in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 13, 2026

Alcohol

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for alcohol in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

Amanita muscaria

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for amanita muscaria in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

Amphetamine

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for amphetamine in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 13, 2026

Amyl Nitrite

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for amyl nitrite in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

Ayahuasca

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for ayahuasca in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

Barbiturates

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for barbiturates in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

Buprenorphine

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for buprenorphine in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 13, 2026

Caffeine

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for caffeine in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

Cathinone

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for cathinone in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

CBD

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for cbd in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

Clonazepam

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for clonazepam in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 13, 2026

Codeine

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for codeine in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 13, 2026

Crack Cocaine

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for crack cocaine in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

Delta-8-THC

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for delta 8 thc in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

Diazepam

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for diazepam in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 13, 2026

DOM

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for dom in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

DXM

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for dxm in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

Ephedrine

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for ephedrine in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 13, 2026

Etizolam

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for etizolam in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 13, 2026

Gabapentin

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for gabapentin in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

GBL

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for gbl in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

HHC

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for hhc in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

Hydrocodone

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for hydrocodone in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 13, 2026

Ketamine

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for Ketamine in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated June 27, 2026

Khat

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for Khat in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated June 27, 2026

Kratom

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for Kratom in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated June 27, 2026

Lorazepam

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for lorazepam in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 13, 2026

LSA (Morning Glory)

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for lsa in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

MDA

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for mda in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

MDPV

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for mdpv in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

Memantine

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for memantine in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

Mephedrone (4-MMC)

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for mephedrone in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

Methadone

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for methadone in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 13, 2026

Methaqualone (Quaaludes)

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for methaqualone in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

Methylone

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for methylone in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

Methylphenidate

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for methylphenidate in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 13, 2026

Mitragynine

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for mitragynine in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 13, 2026

Modafinil

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for modafinil in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 13, 2026

Morphine

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for morphine in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 13, 2026

MXE

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for mxe in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

Nicotine

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for nicotine in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

Nitrous Oxide

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for nitrous oxide in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

Oxycodone

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for oxycodone in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 13, 2026

Peyote

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for Peyote in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated June 27, 2026

Phenibut

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for phenibut in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

Pink Cocaine / Tusi

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for pink cocaine in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

Poppers

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for poppers in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

Pregabalin

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for pregabalin in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

Quetiapine

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for quetiapine in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

Salvia divinorum

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for Salvia divinorum in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated June 27, 2026

Scopolamine (Devil's Breath)

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for scopolamine in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

Synthetic Cannabinoids (K2 / Spice)

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for synthetic cannabinoids in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

THC-P

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for thc p in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

Tobacco

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for tobacco in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

Tramadol

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for tramadol in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 13, 2026

Xanax (Alprazolam)

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for alprazolam in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 13, 2026

Xylazine

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for Xylazine in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated June 27, 2026

Zolpidem

Legal status: Not confirmed — the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing drug law; the specific scheduling/penalty for zolpidem in Papua New Guinea is not confirmed here. Verify against the current schedule.
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not individually verified against Papua New Guinea's drug schedule; the Controlled Substances Act 2021 is the governing law. Do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: In Papua New Guinea, drugs fall under the Controlled Substances Act 2021, which replaced the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (whose penalties had been capped at around two years). The 2021 Act substantially increased the penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking, modelled on the imprisonment-based regimes of comparable Pacific and Commonwealth jurisdictions; Papua New Guinea repealed the death penalty in 2022, so the ceiling for all offences, drug offences included, is imprisonment. The maximum penalty for drug offences is imprisonment. The precise penalty quantities and section numbers under the 2021 Act are not pinned in this cell and should be confirmed against the current statute. Cannabis is controlled under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Controlled Substances Act 2021 (replacing the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952) — specific penalty terms not pinned · reported by The National (thenational.com.pg, 2021) · Updated July 14, 2026

Drug laws and enforcement change and vary by country. This is not legal advice. Always confirm with the destination’s embassy or official drug authority before traveling; penalties can be severe, including imprisonment.

Before you travel

Verify current rules with the destination country’s official drug authority and your own country’s embassy before traveling. Find the destination’s U.S. embassy & official country guidance →
Non-U.S. travelers: check your own government’s travel advisory and embassy.

If you’re detained or arrested abroad

Contact your own country’s embassy or consulate in the destination immediately — not the destination’s authorities. U.S. citizens: contact the nearest U.S. embassy/consulate and the U.S. State Department at +1-202-501-4444 (from abroad). If a U.S. citizen is arrested or detained abroad →

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