Uruguay Becomes First Nation to Legalise Marijuana Trade

Uruguay has become the first country in the world to make it legal to grow, sell and consume marijuana

After nearly 12 hours of debate, senators gave the government-sponsored bill their historic final approval

The law allowing registered Uruguayans over 18 to buy up to 40g (1,4oz) of the drug a month is not expected to come into force before April 2014

Uruguay draft marijuana law

• State controls the production, distribution, commerce and consumption of marijuana
• Consumers have to be over 18 and registered
• Marijuana to be sold at licensed pharmacies
• Sales are limited to 40g (1.4oz) per month
• Registered users can grow up to six plants at home
• Advertising is forbidden
• Prices will be fixed by the government
•  Tourists are excluded

The government hopes it will help tackle drug cartels, but critics say it will expose more people to drugs.

President Jose Mujica says he has never tried marijuana but believes it should be legalised