Legislators said on Tuesday that they back the government's plan to ban CBD products, under which the manufacture, import, export, sale and possession of such items would be illegal.

CBD is a chemical derived from cannabis plants which is used in various products, including snacks and health supplements.

Officials say even though CBD is not considered to be psychoactive, it is almost impossible to extract in a pure form that doesn't contain THC – a banned substance in Hong Kong.

They say it's unacceptable that people might buy products that contain THC.

Kesson Lee, Commissioner for Narcotics, rejected suggestions that the government could test CBD products first, pointing out that the chemical can naturally decompose into THC.

He told a Legco panel meeting that authorities hope to complete the relevant legislation within this year.

Lee said the government would consider setting up collection points for people to dispose of items that would be covered by the ban.

"We hope that there will be a period prior to the commencement of the new legislation, say about three months, for the traders and members of the public who have procured CBD products to dispose of them before the legislation comes into force," Lee said.

FTU legislator Bill Tang asked if the government would consider inviting pop idols such as MIRROR and Hins Cheung to promote anti-drug messages.

Lee said the government will invite young idols to take part in a new campaign to be launched at the end of the year.