News Details

The Agencia de Regulación Sanitaria (ARSA) has announced an update to the official list of controlled substances, aimed at strengthening national health and safety regulations. The updated list supersedes the previous version issued in July 2025 and includes substances monitored under international treaties such as the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs.

The new list, which is part of the country’s ongoing commitment to international drug control, reflects updated classifications of both narcotics and psychotropic substances. The goal is to prevent misuse and abuse of these substances, while safeguarding the population from the potential harms of addiction and dependency.

In a move to ensure better monitoring, ARSA has implemented a strict control regime. This includes issuing import permits, health licenses, and company registrations. Further, companies involved in the production, import, export, and distribution of controlled substances must comply with stringent reporting protocols, detailing the movement of substances and their final destinations.

The update also clarifies guidelines for the importation of specialized equipment, requiring an "Autorización Especial No Gubernamental" for controlled substances. Exceptions to these rules include personal medication carried by travelers and donations to vulnerable populations, which will not require such permits.

For more details, individuals and businesses are encouraged to consult the updated list here (in Spanish).