A Justice Ministry report released last month says the number of Cannabis Control Law violations set a record in 2006, while the amount of marijuana seized dropped to half from the previous year.

Some experts fear this indicates a rise in casual mar ijuana use by a broader population.

Following are basic questions and answers about cannabis in Japan:

What Does the Cannabis Control Law Stipulate?

Enacted in 1948, the Cannabis Control Law bans the import, export, cultivation, sales and purchase of marijuana buds and leaves. Penalties depend on the amount of marijuana involved, but violations, especially involving commercial use of pot, can lead to a 10-year prison term and Y3 million fine.

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