Cairo: Minister of Health and Population Khaled Abdel Ghaffar has issued an urgent ministerial decree No. (44) of 2026, which updates the schedules annexed to the Anti-Narcotics Law No. (182) of 1960. This decree addresses the control, use, and trafficking of narcotic substances.

According to State Information Service Egypt, the decision was made in direct response to a ruling by the Supreme Constitutional Court on February 16, 2026. The court's decision in constitutional case No. (33) of judicial year 47 found certain procedures for amending those schedules to be unconstitutional.

The decree seeks to reorganize the legislative and executive processes for revising the schedules of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, ensuring full compliance with the Egyptian Constitution and upholding the rule of law.

Additionally, the decree aims to bolster pharmaceutical and security oversight of these substances, in accordance with the latest scientific and legal standards. This move is intended to provide more effective protection for society against the risks associated with substance abuse and illegal trafficking.