It will be the first country in the world to sell cannabis over the counter for recreational purposes.

The move came about in 2013 with a law that fully legalised the trade.

Presidential aide Juan Andres Roballo told a press conference that “Cannabis will be dispensed in pharmacies starting in the month of July.”

The substance, available only to Uruguayan citizens or permanent residents, will cost US$1.30 (£1) per gram, with individuals being limited to 40 grams a month.

Mr Roballo added that there would be a public health campaign before the new scheme is launched and said the government does not predict “an avalanche of users” will be signing up.