The government in Germany is facilitating the way for the commercialization of cannabis products, as reported by SPIEGEL. The Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture (BMEL) is advancing cannabis legalization.
In a draft regulation within cannabis circles, led by Cem Özdemir (Greens), the ministry has assigned the Federal Agency for Agriculture and Food as the enforcement authority for handling cannabis for scientific purposes.
Currently, the Cannabis Act permits hemp cultivation in cannabis clubs starting July 1, 2024. Adults can possess 50 grams of dry cannabis flowers at home and up to 25 grams of hashish or grass while on the move.
Last year, the government pledged to authorize the production, distribution, and sale of recreational cannabis in specialty stores to adults within a licensed framework. This aims to analyze the effects on health, youth protection, and the black market.
The industry anticipates increased sales in shops. Prohibition Partners predicts retail sales exceeding 300 million euros in Germany by 2026 and 1.76 billion euros across Europe.
Researchers advocate for non-profit monopolies or temporary government permits for cannabis sales to address social and health concerns seriously.
