Kratom has gained traction globally as a natural botanical with traditional uses, but in Canada, the legal status of kratom remains unclear to many. In this guide, we’ll break down the federal stance, provincial nuances, importation concerns, and what you need to know to stay compliant in 2025.
Health Canada’s Position
Health Canada considers kratom to be an unauthorized natural health product. This means:
• It cannot be legally sold for human consumption.
• No medical or therapeutic claims can be made.
• Products containing kratom cannot be labeled or advertised for ingestion.
Despite this, kratom is not banned. Its possession is not criminalized, and individuals can order it or import it in some cases — but commercial sale is heavily restricted.
While kratom’s regulation is primarily federal, some provinces enforce their own interpretations or guidance for businesses. Here’s a 2025 overview by region:
Ontario
• Kratom is not explicitly regulated at the provincial level.
• Health inspectors have issued warnings to some retailers in the past.
Québec
• No provincial laws ban kratom, but consumer protection agencies may intervene if it’s marketed improperly.
• French labeling laws also apply.
British Columbia
• Seen occasional enforcement from health inspectors.
• Online sales continue, though vendors tend to avoid retail shops.
Alberta
• No official provincial restrictions beyond federal rules.
• Enforcement tends to focus on how the product is marketed.
Manitoba
• Provincial authorities have advised retailers not to sell kratom for human consumption.
• Sales are typically handled online only.
Nova Scotia & New Brunswick
• Very limited presence; health authorities have issued general public advisories.
Saskatchewan
• Kratom is available through online vendors; no known enforcement actions in 2024–2025.
Newfoundland and Labrador
• Sales exist online. Little to no provincial enforcement or guidance issued.
Territories (Yukon, NWT, Nunavut)
• No known local regulation. Online ordering is technically possible but slower due to shipping constraints.
This is a tricky subject.
Personal Use
While kratom is not a banned substance, importing kratom for personal use remains in a grey zone. Some Canadians report successfully ordering from U.S. vendors — but some packages are seized by CBSA (Canada Border Services Agency).
For Resale
Importing kratom to resell or distribute is prohibited unless you hold a valid Natural Product Number (NPN) — which no kratom products have in Canada as of 2025.
Import Tips:
• Avoid labeling it as “for consumption” — many vendors list it as “botanical specimen” or “not for human use.”
• Be aware: even with this labeling, there’s no guarantee CBSA won’t intercept it.
• Use tracked shipping and understand that importing is always at your own risk.
Here’s how to reduce your risk when buying or using kratom in Canada:
• Buy from reputable vendors that don’t make health claims.
• Avoid products labeled as “for pain relief,” “opioid withdrawal,” etc.
• Never advertise kratom as a supplement or drug if you plan to resell it.
• Stick to “not for human consumption” labeling if selling online.
• Stay informed. Laws evolve — follow updates from Health Canada or legal watchdogs.
Health Canada requires extensive clinical data before approving any product for human use. Kratom lacks:
• Peer-reviewed studies that meet Canadian standards.
• Proof of consistent dosing or quality control.
• Documented long-term safety in humans.
Because of this, kratom remains in limbo, it’s not banned, but not legally marketable as a health product either.
Possibly.
• In the U.S., the FDA and DEA have considered scheduling kratom, but pushback from consumers has delayed action.
• Globally, some countries (like Thailand) have re-legalized kratom in recent years.
• In Canada, change is slow, but increased use and public discussion may prompt updated regulations or research funding.
For now, the safest path for Canadian consumers and sellers is caution and transparency.
Is kratom legal to buy in Canada?
Yes, it’s not a controlled substance, but selling it for consumption is not legal. It exists in a grey legal area.
Can I import kratom from the U.S.?
Possibly, but there’s a risk CBSA may seize the package. It’s not guaranteed to arrive.
Will I get in trouble for owning kratom?
Not criminally. But if you sell or market it improperly, you may face fines or enforcement.
Can I find kratom in stores in Canada?
Mostly online. Physical stores rarely carry it due to legal ambiguity.
Why do vendors say “not for human consumption”?
To avoid violating Health Canada’s marketing rules. It’s a legal workaround, though it’s not foolproof.
What happens if Health Canada sees my site selling kratom?
You could receive a compliance notice or takedown request if your content makes medical claims or encourages ingestion.
Yes and no.
• Kratom is not banned federally, but it’s also not approved as a consumable product.
• You can possess and buy it, but selling or marketing it for use comes with serious restrictions.
• Provinces follow federal guidance, with minor variation in enforcement.
If you use or sell kratom in Canada, your best strategy is to stay discreet, stay informed, and stay compliant.
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