The United States has recently signed off on easing the regulations surrounding cannabis. This precedent decision is viewed as another stride toward their progressive drug reform policies. The measure, against the backdrop of a changing perception of marijuana, has spurred interest and reaction on a global scale, Japan included. The exact details on the locality, timeframe, and scoped amendments in the current legislation are yet to be disclosed.

In Japan, drug regulations remain stringent and the topic of marijuana usage and legalization is usually a controversial one. The social and legal values tend toward conservatism, with the majority viewing marijuana as a harmful and addiction-inducing drug. The ease in regulation by the US might spark heated discussions, draw concern or curiosity from those involved in the political and legal sectors, or from individuals advocating liberal drug laws.

Unlike the US, the EU's stance on cannabis regulation varies widely among its member states. While the US is advancing toward decriminalization, the EU exhibits a mixed response. Some countries have decriminalized for personal use, others have medical cannabis programs, and some continue to uphold a ban on any form of use or possession.