The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has directed all individuals, businesses, institutions and organisations dealing in precursor chemicals, psychotropic substances and controlled laboratory equipment to register with the Commission by 31st July 2026 or face legal sanctions.
The directive forms part of a nationwide exercise to strengthen oversight of chemicals and equipment that could be diverted into the illegal manufacture of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances.
In a public notice, NACOC said the registration requirement is backed by the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), which makes it mandatory for all operators in the sector to obtain the appropriate licence and authorisation before starting or continuing their activities.
The registration applies to entities involved in the importation and exportation, manufacturing, production, distribution, wholesale, retail, storage, transportation and brokerage of precursor chemicals and psychotropic substances. It also covers laboratories, research institutions, industrial users and educational institutions handling such materials.
NACOC said existing registered operators must also ensure their licences and registrations remain valid and are renewed on time.
The Commission explained that the exercise is intended to promote the lawful use of precursor chemicals and controlled equipment, prevent their diversion into illicit drug production, strengthen national security and public safety, and ensure Ghana meets its obligations under national and international law.
It warned that anyone operating without the required registration, licence or authorisation would be in breach of the law and could face administrative, civil or criminal sanctions under Act 1019.
NACOC also listed several categories of controlled equipment that fall under its regulatory framework, including encapsulating machines, tableting machines, rotary evaporators, high-capacity laboratory glassware, reaction vessels, condensers, separating funnels, heating apparatus, mixers, pill counting machines, pill polishing machines, punches and dies, as well as any other equipment designated by the Commission.
The Commission urged all affected persons and organisations that have not yet registered to begin the process immediately or regularise their existing registration status before the 31st July deadline.
