Europe’s Cannabis Landscape: A Guide to Legalization Across the Continent
Germany recently became the largest country in Europe to legalize recreational marijuana, joining 27 other EU countries with some form of legalization. While the EU market is still small, with estimated sales of $1.2 billion this year, it is projected to reach $6 billion by 2028. The UK, which has a legal medical market, is expected to generate $255 million in annual sales.
The growth of the EU cannabis industry is slow but steady, with common sense regulations allowing for the cultivation of marijuana in Spain and Portugal and its export to other countries. “The policies are practical, and they have common sense regulations,” says Beau Whitney, founder of cannabis data firm Whitney Economics.
Here’s a breakdown of cannabis laws across Europe and the UK:
Adult Use: Only three European countries have legalized adult-use marijuana, with non-profit clubs where members can obtain marijuana. These countries are Malta, Luxembourg, and Germany.
Medical Marijuana: Medical marijuana programs vary across Europe, with most countries allowing cannabis products to be dispensed through pharmacies. Some countries, like Cyprus, only allow cannabis oil, while others, like Denmark, permit pharmaceutical drugs like Sativex and botanical forms of marijuana.
Decriminalization: Four EU countries have broadly decriminalized marijuana: Spain, the Netherlands, Estonia, and Slovenia.
Pharmaceutical Cannabinoid Drugs: Many countries allow pharmaceutical cannabinoid drugs, which are distinct from medical and adult-use marijuana products. These drugs are made with THC and CBD and are only available with a prescription.
Illegal: Marijuana remains illegal in most European countries, including Andorra, Bulgaria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and others.
The EU cannabis market is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, with companies investing hundreds of millions of dollars in the industry. As the market expands, it will be important to monitor the development of regulations and ensure that they are practical and sensible.
