Germany: First Evaluation of Legalisation Shows Positive Results Despite Political Opposition

🏛️ Germany has become the gravitational centre of global cannabis trade, exposing it to multiple tensions: between patient rights and regulatory compliance, national policy and international treaties, and supply efficiency versus strategic redundancy.

• Cannabis reform in Germany faces potential failure due to political motivations, legal challenges, and economic risks. Federal Ministry of Health’s proposed amendments to Medical Cannabis Act face criticism over legality and potential impact on telemedicine. The Health Minister supports a cannabis shipping ban, emphasises medical supervision, and withdraws from BPC to enhance patient safety and access.
  • Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD) disagree on cannabis regulation, making ongoing evaluations and proposed amendments to the Medical Cannabis Act contentious.
    • Pharmacy reform aims to enhance competencies, reduce bureaucracy, improve profitability, and strengthen rural pharmacies’ roles in healthcare delivery.
  • Thuringia‘s Prime Minister Voigt criticizes Germany’s cannabis law, questioning its effectiveness and calling for a reevaluation of its impact.
  • Lower Saxony Health Minister Philippi warns against cannabis becoming a legal gateway drug, citing rising mental health treatment cases among users.
  • Frankfurt Higher Regional Court rules that telemedicine platforms violate competition law by directing patients to partner pharmacies, restricting pharmacy choice.
  • Germany’s Cannabis Act report shows positive outcomes; Bloomwell CEO opposes proposed restrictions on medical cannabis access and advocates for current laws.
• Official response from the German federal government indicates progress toward implementing the second phase of cannabis legalization, though significant legal, regulatory, and coordination challenges remain.
  • The Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM) reassesses cannabis import quotas, promising short processing times amid industry concerns over supply and domestic production discrepancies.
  • The Federal Office for Agriculture and Food rejected Frankfurt’s application to sell cannabis in the pilot project.
• As of September 3, 2025, authorities have received 743 applications for cultivation associations, with 323 approvals granted. This data highlights the ongoing efforts and challenges in establishing a legal framework for cannabis cultivation in Germany.
  • The Federal Working Group of Cannabis Cultivation Associations (BCAv) presents 19 demands to improve cannabis law, addressing bureaucratic hurdles and promoting cultivation associations to reduce black market activity.
  • A major survey of 220 cannabis clubs conducted by Hemp App confirms: quality assurance is working, youth protection is effective, and the black market is shrinking:
    • On average, clubs have 275 members with an average age of 36 years. They dispense 22.6g per member/month and an average of 6.2kg per month in total. They hold 6.1 varieties with an average THCa content of 18.6% and CBD of 5%.
    • Bavaria’s only cannabis club closed after legal defeat, with authorities prohibiting cannabis distribution and cultivation due to building regulation violations.
    • Hamburg sees limited demand for legal cannabis cultivation; only 13 associations have been approved, with seven full-time positions allocated for administration.

💼The EKOCAN interim report reveals that Germany’s partial cannabis legalization has produced no dramatic shifts in consumption patterns or safety concerns. The reform has significantly reduced criminal offenses and police workload, although possession limits don’t align well with typical home growing practices. While legal sources such as home cultivation and medical cannabis are gaining popularity, cultivation associations have had minimal impact on reducing black market activity.

• In 2024, cannabis demand reached 670–823 tons, with medical use accounting for only 12–14% and cultivation clubs contributing almost nothing, leaving the black market dominant.
• According to the EKOCAN evaluation, 88.4% of adults now obtain cannabis from legal sources: 50% grow it at home, 29% purchase from pharmacies, and just 1.9% use grow clubs. Only 19.9% still use illegal sources, with dealers accounting for merely 11.6% of supply.
  • Research instead of prejudice: Scientific knowledge provides the best path for a rational cannabis policy. Despite the EKOCAN accompanying research, reliable data on cannabis handling remains insufficient.
    • Initial results show cannabis-related crimes declined significantly since the Consumer Cannabis Act came into force on April 1, 2024.
      • The law reduced dependence on illicit markets and changed habits, but the survey is non-representative and overrepresents heavy users.
      • Partial cannabis legalization in Germany shows limited impact; black market remains strong despite initial expectations of reduction.
    • The situation differs for minors, who primarily get cannabis from friends/acquaintances (45.8%), dealers (33.3%), or home growing (6.3%).
      • Concerningly, 22.5% of minors have tried synthetic cannabinoids like HHC.
      • Among medical cannabis users, 94% must pay out-of-pocket without insurance coverage.
      • Since legalization, more than 75% of users report feeling less fearful of criminal prosecution.
      • Cannabis offenses dropped by 60–80% as possession cases declined, though trafficking now represents a larger share of cases. Home growing often exceeds legal limits with minimal enforcement.
        • However, cultivation clubs remain ineffective, youth use is decreasing, adult use is slowly increasing, and authorities apply possession and harvest rules inconsistently.
• A Bloomwell survey shows specialised digital pharmacies are essential for ensuring reliable access to medical cannabis in Germany.
  • They supply most of the demand, averaging €7.50 per gram, while traditional pharmacies struggle with both availability and telemedicine prescriptions, which account for less than 10% of their sales.
  • Additionally, 40.6% of pharmacies have never dispensed medical cannabis or lack knowledge on how to do so, and over half report minimal engagement with digital prescription channels. Despite these challenges, 57.8% of pharmacies report no noticeable effect on their overall business since legalization.
• German Cannabis Standard secures 10 million euros and builds one of the largest production facilities in Germany, setting a new record in the cannabis sector.
  • Trapcan GmbH plans to cultivate cannabis in Merchweiler for a research project related to the Consumer Cannabis Act, pending approval.
• Grünhorn Group explores restructuring to adapt to regulatory changes as new cannabis law may ban shipping, threatening pharmacies.
• Berlin International Gaming partners with GreenMedical and Four 20 Pharma to promote regulated medical cannabis use through community education and campaigns.
• Weeco Pharma showcased innovative cannabis products and new dosage forms at Expopharm 2025, emphasizing patient-centered healthcare and bioavailability.
• Tilray expands its premium craft cannabis production in Germany, introducing five new patient-centered cannabis flower products.
• Storz & Bickel presents VEAZY, its smaller vaporiser yet.

🔬 Clemens Fischer’s company Vertanical develops cannabis-based painkiller Ver-01, aiming to replace opioids with fewer side effects and addiction risks in patients with chronic low-back pain.

• VER-01 shows superior gastrointestinal tolerability and pain relief compared to opioids in chronic low back pain treatment: less constipation and improved sleep quality.
• A study of 125 participants showed that regular cannabis use in metabolically healthy young people was associated with lower levels of inflammation compared to non-users , but had no effect on insulin sensitivity, with no different effects were observed between cannabis products with more THC, more CBD, or a balanced ratio of both ingredients.
• Cannabis can interact dangerously with psychotropic drugs, affecting their metabolism and increasing risks of side effects and toxicity.
  • Cannabis legalization in Germany may increase health risks, particularly mental health disorders, outweighing benefits from reduced contamination.
• Pharmakon 2025 discusses the legal framework and clinical research on medical cannabis, quality control challenges, and market risks of cannabidiol.

United States Prepares for Cannabis Rescheduling with Renewed Trump’s Support

🏛️ Department of Justice withdraws proposed marijuana and hemp rules, creating uncertainty about cannabis research and rescheduling efforts under Trump administration.

• Trump’s administration faces pressure to fully deschedule marijuana, end criminalization, and address community harms from prohibition.
  • While the administration considers moving cannabis to Schedule III, a petition urges complete descheduling to end federal marijuana prohibition.
    • Critics warn that rescheduling cannabis to Schedule III could mislead the public while failing to address core criminalization and equity issues.
      • The post-rescheduling cannabis landscape presents potential chaos, risks, and opportunities as operators navigate federal changes, markets, and policy evolution.
      • The president shared a video discussing seniors who “struggle with pain, inflammation, cognitive decline, and other ailments of aging,” amid reports he’s considering reclassifying marijuana as less dangerous.
      • New drug policies increasingly emphasize evidence-based reforms focused on health, rights, and sustainable development while addressing organized crime challenges.
      • New US legislation may ban cannabis seeds, impacting Dutch seed banks and altering the hemp product market significantly.
  • At her confirmation hearing to become White House Director of Drug Control Policy, Sara Carter stated “all of us” continue to assess research and data on cannabis rescheduling.
  • The DOJ‘s withdrawal of cannabis-related rulemaking actions signals a deprioritization of cannabis policy amid broader deregulatory initiatives.
• The FDA has issued draft guidance promoting nonopioid medications for chronic pain treatment to reduce opioid dependence.
  • FDA begins tracking adverse health events related to hemp-derived cannabinoids like CBD after White House approval.
• Forty lawmakers have reintroduced the MORE Act to federally legalize cannabis, expunge convictions, and support affected communities.
  • North America’s cannabis industry stands at a crossroads: state legalization surges while federal policy lags, creating both opportunities and uncertainties.
• Texas and Washington grapple with regulatory challenges for hemp and THC beverages, affecting market growth and future Farm Bill legislation.
  • Texas has banned hemp sales to those under 21, implementing ID checks and penalties following an executive order.
• California‘s Legislature passed a bill to suspend the cannabis tax increase to 19% for three years as the regulated market struggles against illegal competition.
  • The state has also enacted tax relief measures for cannabis growers to support the industry and reduce financial pressures.
  • Michigan cannabis operators are up in arms over a proposed 24% wholesale tax that would take effect in January.
    • However, Michigan House Speaker threatens government shutdown if proposed 24% tax fails to pass in Senate., despite concerns about its impact on the cannabis industry.
• Wisconsin Senate President Mary Felzkowski introduces new medical cannabis legalisation bill with Republican colleagues: recent poll shows 67% of voters in favor.

💼 The Federal Reserve’s interest rate cuts may benefit the broader economy and ease cost of debt on cannabis operators—but absent banking legislation and punitive tax burdens will continue to punish cannabis industry.

• In Colorado, one of the largest recalls ever affected over a dozen strains across 172 stores. 710 Labs faces its second mold-related recall in two-and-a-half years.
  • Colorado cannabis prices have reached record lows despite fewer licensed cultivators and declining sales, triggering business closures.
• Vermont‘s Cannabis Retailers Association launched ‘CannaTrail’ to promote local cannabis dispensaries and engage tourists and locals, featuring 23 dispensaries.
• Philip Morris and Swedish Match successfully dismissed a lawsuit alleging nicotine pouch price inflation following acquisition, preserving market competition.
• Kensana Health has secured $120M from GEM to advance AI-driven plant-based medicines, focusing on lead drug KV23a with plans for NASDAQ listing in Q2 2026.
• Verano secures $75 million revolving credit facility, drawing $50 million to retire existing debt and fund strategic initiatives.
• Minnesota’s first non-tribal recreational marijuana dispensary has opened in Duluth.
• Australian health technology company EncapSolutions has officially launched its first range of SkinSync Natural Health Patches at Newtopia, a leading wellness event in Denver, Colorado.
• FloraGrowth renames to ZeroStack in a billion-dollar move seeking to boost the Zero Gravity (0G) project with strategic support from Solana cryptocurrency.

🔬 Researchers have identified 52 odor-active compounds in dried hemp flowers, revealing complex aroma profiles across different cultivars through gas chromatography–olfactometry and aroma extract dilution analysis.

• Hyperspectral measurements can accurately predict cannabinoid yield, enabling non-destructive assessment and improving cannabis production and regulatory compliance.
  • Studies show medical cannabis legalization increases sales, demonstrating economic growth while influencing substance use patterns through complex substitution dynamics.
  • Phytocannabinoids CBN and THCV reduced alcohol consumption in rats with favorable safety profiles, while CBD showed minor effects and reduced activity.
• Study finds that HHS rationale for reclassifying cannabis in various forms (edibles, smokables, drinkables, vaping products, suppositories) is flawed.
  • It uses questionable comparator drugs, minimizes distinctive adverse events in cannabis users, and makes unconvincing claims about cannabis’s widespread acceptance.
  • However, other review points that resurgence of cannabis research highlights its therapeutic potential for chronic pain, inflammation, and mental health conditions.
• Artelo Biosciences has announced positive Phase 2 results for ART27.13, improving weight and activity in cancer anorexia-cachexia syndrome patients.

Australia’s Medical Cannabis Supply Surges Amid TGA Review of Patient Access Pathway

🏛️ Therapeutic Goods Administration is reviewing medicinal cannabis safety amid industry submissions ahead of changes. Patient voices are crucial in the TGA consultation on medicinal cannabis, impacting policy and patient care by October 7, 2025.

• Patients are being urged to bombard health officials and regulators with their personal stories of medicinal cannabis.
• NSW government rejects parliamentary recommendations on reform, defers drug policy decisions to upcoming response to 2024 Drug Summit.
• Pharmacists have been told not to put profits above patient safety as the governing body released guidance on dispending medicinal cannabis.
  • Cannabis prescribing should sit within general practice and not in specialist clinics, a conference has heard.
    • Doctors must look after their own mental health if they are to provide the best possible care for patients, doctors have been told.
  • Montu urges TGA to reform medicinal cannabis access, citing a roundtable’s findings for a new data-driven framework.
  • Novachem’s submission to the TGA emphasises need for reform with the creation of a dedicated cannabinoid products registry with stricter dossier requirements.
• Australian Medicinal Cannabis Association (AMCA) and Medicinal Cannabis Australia (MCA) to host roadshows on prescribing regulations, emphasizing duty of care for healthcare practitioners starting October 23, 2025.
  • AMCA has matched Medicinal Cannabis Industry Australia’s (MCIA) $20k contribution, essentially taking the industry fund for the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) consultation to its $100k target.
  • AMCA suspends new patient access to Compass program for a comprehensive review to improve accessibility and streamline processes.
• Australian Industrial Hemp Alliance (AIHA) accuses Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) of mixed messages on hemp pet nutrition as delays devastate businesses and stall industry growth.
• Dispensed Pty Ltd issued infringement notices and directed to cease alleged unlawful advertising of medicinal cannabis.

💼 Australia’s medical cannabis supply expanded sharply in 2024 across every segment: imports surged to 77.4 tonnes led by Canadian supply, domestic production jumped to 41.3 tonnes, and exports rose modestly to 3.3 tonnes, led by growing demand from New Zealand and Germany. Meanwhile, stockpiles climbed to 56.3 tonnes, with production stocks alone up 158% to 38 t.

• Pastilles have surpassed oil as the second most prescribed dosage form for medicinal cannabis among the 18-44 age group, with 25% of new patient-product authorisations.
• The rebuild of Releaf Clinics has continued with the acquisition of Ananda Clinics by the Vitura Health-Crisci Group JV Flora Holdings.
  • Vitura paid investors A$1.32 million at $0.2c per share after a 2025 financial year that saw Vitura generate $124m in revenue and post a net profit after tax of $3.1m.
  • Astrid Dispensary launched a patient portal to enhance transparency, accessibility, and continuity of care in a noisy market.
• Biortica CEO Tom Varga confirms reverse takeover of Bod Science is pending, with a deadline of November 28 to finalize the deal.
• Neurotech has launched an Authorised Prescriber program for NTI164, which contains a high level of CBDA and minor cannabinoides like CBG, CBN, and CBDP.
• Beacon Medical launches four metered dose inhaler formulations in the Australian market manufactured by Medipharm Labs in Canada.
• PharmaCrop secures TGA license for the packaging and release of medical cannabis flowers.
• X-Hemp has closed a $3.4m seed raise, securing major backing to scale its hempcrete business and lead Australia’s sustainable building sector.

🔬 Cannabis cautioning in New South Wales reduces recidivism by 16-17 percentage points compared to prosecution for minor drug offenses.

• Humacology has reported promising results from observational studies into CBD-based therapies for menopause and PTSD.
• Medicinal cannabis use in Australia is rising, but evidence of efficacy and safety remains inconsistent and low quality.
• End-of-day far-red light can enhance cannabinoid concentration in high THC cannabis without affecting flower biomass yields.
• Newly Ontracka App white paper release data revealing the therapeutic benefits of medicinal cannabis could help doctors shape future patient care.
• Feasibility trial of medicinal cannabis for endometriosis failed due to recruitment challenges and high participant withdrawal rates.

Canada: Compliance Tightens as Provinces Tackle Supply, Pricing, and Product Integrity

🏛️ The number of Health Canada inspections of federally licensed cannabis facilities and licence holders increased in the 2024-2025 fiscal year, compared to previous years.

• Calgary allows cannabis sales at all-ages events with designated areas for minors: retailers must apply for temporary licence extensions and comply with provincial regulations.

💼 SQDC reported $181 million in overall sales for Q1 2025-2026, representing an 11.1% increase from $162.9 million in the same quarter last year, selling 37 tonnes of cannabis (up 15.6%) through 106 stores now operating. For the fiscal year ending March 29, 2025, SQDC reported $741.5 million in sales, 149,223 kg of cannabis sold, $118.1 million in net profit, and returned $295.9 million to the provincial government. The company is enhancing customer support by shifting to a monthly product launch cycle and allowing greater access for small producers.

• Starting in November, SQDC plans to offer two vaping devices and 25 different cartridges in its brick-and-mortar locations, as well as an additional five through its online portal.
• Cannabis producers and retailers in British Columbia are bracing themselves for the effects of a strike that has closed the province’s central delivery warehouse, affecting distribution from provincial liquor and cannabis warehouses.
• A Vancouver-based venture capital firm, Pegasus Mercantile Inc., has signed an agreement to acquire a group of 75 Ontario cannabis retailers of the Independent Retailers Alliance.
• Aurora Cannabis launched an English Physician Experience Platform for medical cannabis education, collaborating with Copeia for global access.
  • The facility investment includes adopting the company’s unmatched global manufacturing practices for superior cannabis production and quality.
• High Tide expands with new locations in North York, Etobicoke, and Fort McMurray, growing to 210 stores. The company maintains 12% market share and aims to open 2-3 new stores monthly from cash flow.
  • Reports $149.7 million in revenue in the three months ended July 31, 2025 (Q3 2025), gross profit of $40.1 million, and net income of $832,000.
• Large and small cannabis producers in New Brunswick say there could be great growth potential for the industry if the federal government lowered a tax that takes away about a third of their revenue.
• Cannabis grow stores once thriving hubs of Canada’s cannabis scene, face new challenges and uncertain futures post-legalization.
  • While progress has been made in cannabis packaging, challenges persist in terms of waste, usability, and the need to communicate brand identity.
• Calgary allows cannabis sales at all-ages events, aligning with provincial rules, ensuring sales occur in designated areas for safety.
• Canopy Growth made a US$25 million early prepayment on its term loan, reducing annual cash interest expense by US$6.5 million.

🔬 Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission (AGLC)‘s cannabis testing programme found 35 non-compliant samples since 2020, primarily due to THC level discrepancies and other issues.

United Kingdom: Clinics Expand Affordable Access with Flexible Plans

🏛️ UK cannabis industry shifting focus from regulation to medical use under Labour, increasing parliamentary discussions and patient access since 2024.

• Expanding National Health Service (NHS) access to medical cannabis could boost the UK economy by £13.3 billion and reduce hospital admissions significantly.
• Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD) reviews 2018 cannabis regulations’ impact, seeking evidence on medicinal cannabis products and unintended consequences.
  • Call for evidence to support ACMD‘s review of changes to legislation on the use of cannabis-based products for medicinal purposes (CBPMs).

💼 UK medicinal cannabis demand is soaring; Dalgety aims to increase production to serve 4000 patients, meeting rising prescription needs and reducing imports.

• Mamedica, a London based provider for cannabis-based prescription medicines, raised £4.5M in funding, thanks to Snoop Dogg’s Casa Verde Capital.
  • Additionally, Mamedica has launched a Flex Plan, a patient-friendly subscription option that makes cannabis-based treatments more accessible and affordable; allowing patients to spread costs through monthly payments, choose from tiered service levels, and customize their care with add-ons such as consultations or delivery.
  • I Am Billy launches a UK non-profit access scheme for plant-based medicine, offering consultations and affordable THC and CBD options.
• Rizzle Kicks musician partners with Alternaleaf to shed light on the role of alternative treatments in supporting mental wellbeing.
• Functional beverages are rapidly growing, driven by wellness trends, with significant market expansion and innovation in alcohol alternatives.
• The conversation around workers’ rights and medical cannabis is still at a very early stage in the UK.

🔬 The Medical Cannabis Clinicians Society (MCCS) and Curaleaf Laboratories have formed a new partnership aimed at addressing critical knowledge gaps.

• THC exposure negatively affects oocyte maturation, transcriptomic profiles, chromosome segregation, and embryo euploidy rates in IVF treatments.
• Comprehensive review find low-quality evidence in pharmacotherapies treating cannabis use disorder.

South Africa: Regulated Hemp and Cannabis Shift Into Export Gear

🏛️ South Africa advances a regulated hemp and cannabis sector, boosting cultivation, exports, and rural jobs through new legislation.

• ARC plans to build a 2,000m² cannabis research facility in Pretoria to enhance cultivation and processing research amid regulatory developments.
• South African Cannabis Club Alliance (SACCA) promotes compliance for private cannabis clubs to gain legal recognition and unite the cannabis community in South Africa.

💼 The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) has highlighted its role in developing and implementing the National Cannabis Master Plan.

• South Africa is transitioning towards a fully regulated, economically driven cannabis and hemp industry. The initiative focuses on harmonizing laws, supporting local cultivation, and creating export opportunities, while maintaining emphasis on public health and safety.
• Cilo Cybin sets expansion sights internationally into Europe and UK, focusing on cannabis, psychedelics, and manufacturing, while awaiting regulatory clarity in South Africa.

🔬 GES Labs research update on Terpene retention in solventless extraction: average terpene recovery of 76% after rosin pressing and 96% through decarboxylation.

• Limonene and β-caryophyllene remained dominant throughout all processing stages, reinforcing product consistency and therapeutic potential. The pressing step showed the greatest loss, largely from physical transfer rather than heat, highlighting an opportunity to optimise post-press handling and collection.

Brazil: ANVISA Presses Pause on Products While Cultivation Research Path Emerges

🏛️ ANVISA requested an additional 180 days from the Superior Court of Justice (STJ), as the original deadline expired on September 30. The agency cited technical complexity, the need for public consultation, and management changes as reasons for the extension. If granted, the regulation will only be issued in March 2026 and will undergo open public consultation.

• Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária (ANVISA) prohibits cannabis products from Forest Medical due to lack of registration; companies claim the information is outdated.
  • ANVISA and Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (EMBRAPA) discussed authorization for cannabis cultivation research to build a scientific foundation in Brazil for agricultural applications.
  • Parliamentary Front pushes for agility in the regulation of the law that guarantees free access to cannabis-based medications in the state
• Veterinarians express concerns due to the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAPA) has not yet presented any regulatory proposal for public consultation on the veterinary use of cannabis.

🔬 Jundiaí School of Medicine is recruiting volunteers for a pioneering study with THC and CBD in patients with moderate Alzheimer’s, bringing hope for new care and improved quality of life.

Netherlands: Legal Pilot Faces Community and Market Headwinds

🏛️ Two suspects arrested for breaking into **CanAdelaar’**s greenhouses; third incident in 1.5 years amid ongoing odour complaints from residents. Legal cannabis farm CanAdelaar in Hellevoetsluis robbed for the fourth time; police suspect two robbers stole several kilos of cannabis.

• Fake letters about compensation for odour nuisance from cannabis grower CanAdelaar are circulating, confirmed as scams by local authorities.
• CanAdelaar must limit odors or face fines; failure could jeopardize the Netherlands’ legal cannabis trial involving ten growers.

💼 In 2024, the use of medicinal cannabis in the Netherlands fell by 3.5%, but costs rose by 17% due to Epidyolex. Public pharmacies dispensed cannabinoids over 37,000 times in 2024, 3.5% fewer than in 2023. This marked a decline in the number of dispensings for the seventh consecutive year. Nevertheless, costs rose by 17% to €5.4 million due to Epidiolex sales.

• Hollandse Hoogtes grows cannabis legally, producing 8,000 kilos annually, expanding to 11,000 kilos, with strict quality controls and traceability.
• German investor Uwe Reppegather demands repayment from cannabis grower FYTA after €11 million investment amid financial concerns and potential bankruptcy.
• The city of Tiel explored sixteen locations for relocating coffeeshops, facing obstacles from traffic, residents, and police recommendations; current site chosen.
• Merger of Barney’s Farm, Sensi Seeds, and ILGM fails due to PowerPlant’s alleged failure to meet contractual obligations, impacting cannabis seed market.
• Zembla research reveals THC vapes among schoolchildren contain synthetic cannabinoids, causing health concerns and hospitalizations for young users.

🔬 Polyploidization in Cannabis sativa affects morphology and secondary metabolite production, showing cultivar-dependent responses in cannabinoids and volatiles.

Morocco’s Licensed Growth Accelerates With New Products

💼 Morocco’s legal cannabis industry is seeing a rapid growth and newly approved products by the Moroccan Agency for Medicines and Health Products (MAMHP), comprising 26 cosmetic items and 41 dietary supplements.

• Morocco has taken a major step toward the regulated medical use of cannabis, with the National Agency for the Regulation of Cannabis-Related Activities (ANRAC) signing formal agreements with five national scientific associations.
• It also increased its cultivation areas; 4,400 hectares of the traditional “Beldia” variety by 4,490 farmers, involved in licensed production in 250 cooperatives in the provinces of Taounate, Chefchaouen, and Al Hoceima.
• In addition, the National Food Safety Office (ONSSA) authorized 1,340 hectares for cultivation with imported seeds. That production involves 1,650 farmers grouped in 50 cooperatives licensed to import seeds this year.

🔬 Chemical variability of cannabinoids in five Moroccan Cannabis sativa cultivars analysed over three years, highlighting distinct profiles. Five major cannabinoids were identified: THCA-A, CBDA, CBD, Δ⁹-THC, and CBN, with varying concentrations across cultivars and years.

• Local ‘Beldiya’ cultivar exhibited chemical stability, contrasting with exotic cultivars that showed significant annual variability in cannabinoid content.
• A retrospective analysis of cannabis poisoning incidents from 2008 to 2017 was conducted, encompassing both occasional and habitual users. Data were sourced from the Moroccan Poison Control Center (MPCC), providing a comprehensive national perspective.
  • During the study period, 553 cases of cannabis poisoning were reported, with a gender distribution of 19.3% female and 80.7% male. Notably, 245 individuals were identified as regular users. The mean age of those affected was 18.3 years.

 Thailand: Power Shuffle Keeps Cannabis in Play Despite Switch Towards Medical-Only Use

🏛️ Cannabis advocates in Thailand are calling on the new government to deliver legislation that protects users, businesses, non-users and minors, following concerns that recent regulatory changes have created monopolistic industry conditions.

• Thailand’s cannabis industry is navigating a period of rapid regulatory shifts, and operators who anticipated compliance from the start are finding themselves better positioned.
  • The idea of reclassifying cannabis as a narcotic is unlikely to happen once Bhumjaithai leads the government, said Prasitchai Nunual, secretary-general of Writing Thailand’s Cannabis Future.
    • Thai lawmakers have elected former businessman and political veteran Anutin Charnvirakul known as the “cannabis king” as prime minister, replacing Shinawatras. Anutin Charnvirakul secured appointment as Prime Minister with support from 311 of 492 House Representatives.
      • Thailand’s new prime minister vowed to restrict the use of marijuana for medical purposes after thousands of weed shops opened across the country since the nation became the first in Asia to decriminalize.

 Italy’s Court Clarify Hemp Boundaries as Medical Use and Education Scale Up

🏛️ The Court of Trento has ruled on the appeal filed by two associations (Canapa Sativa Italia and Imprenditori Canapa Italia) against the Meloni government’s security decree.

• First seizure of non-psychoactive hemp flowers confirmed legal, requiring scientific analysis for future seizures and clarifying cannabis regulations.

💼 First Italian forum on medical cannabis in Florence, focusing on education for doctors and pharmacists on therapeutic cannabinoid applications.

• Medical cannabis use is increasing for pain management and degenerative diseases, as medical cannabis prescriptions reached 100,000 in five years; experts call for a review of the law after ten years.

🔬 Cannabizetol, a new cannabinoid, was synthesised and isolated from Cannabis sativa, showing significant anti-inflammatory activity.

• Cannabizetol demonstrated potent inhibition of NF-κB-driven transcription and IL-8 release in human keratinocyte cells, indicating therapeutic potential.
• Study compares small-scale cannabis growers in Italy and UK, highlighting differences in motivations, cultivation practices, and cannabis use behaviors.

Spain’s Royal Decree Nears for a Tightly Controlled Medical Cannabis Program

🏛️ The approval of a highly restrictive medical cannabis programme through a Royal Decree is expected in the next few weeks, pending only final approval by the Council of Ministers.

• A Technical Paper was submitted at the UNESCO 2025 World Conference on Cultural Policies & Sustainable Development (MONDIACULT 2025) in Barcelona calling for a reconsideration of international obligations and commitments related to cannabis and cultural rights.

💼 Cronidol, a daily topical cream for osteoarthritis with 35,8 mg/g of CBD ingredient, was created by Votum World to address pain management for affected individuals.

• Barcelona’s Prosecutor’s Office proposes prison sentences for electricity theft linked to large-scale marijuana cultivation due to low current penalties.

🔬 Cannabis consumption may negatively impact women’s fertility, affecting embryo quality and IVF outcomes, according to a new study.

Switzerland Toward a Regulated Market; Medical Momentum Meets Pharma-Grade Standards

🏛️ Switzerland’s Cannabis Products Act draft aims for regulated market with health protection, quality assurance, and limited sales to residents only.

💼 Naturalpes becomes a pharmaceutical establishment with GDP authorization from Swissmedic.

• Astrasana launches its AST-Premium cannabis line in Swiss pharmacies, expanding patient access with 5 new cultivars.

🔬 Developed and validated an HPLC-PDA method for quantifying cannflavins A, B, and C in various cannabis chemovars.

Czech Republic: Medical Prescriptions Climb as Public Debate Challenges Prohibition

🏛️ Youtuber CzeXperiment highlights absurdity of cannabis laws through a social experiment, advocating for cannabis prisoners and calling for presidential pardons.

💼 In the first half of 2025, medical cannabis use in the Czech Republic continued to grow steadily.

• A total of 200 kg was prescribed, predominantly in the form of dried cannabis, with extracts making up a smaller portion. Monthly prescriptions ranged from around 28 kg to 45 kg, while dispensed amounts were slightly lower at 172 kg.
  • The number of patients receiving treatment increased gradually, averaging 3,500–4,300 per month, reflecting a consistent rise in both patient participation and prescriber engagement across the country.

Argentina’s Provinces Build Medical and Industrial Frameworks From the Ground Up

🏛️ Mendoza regulates medicinal cannabis and industrial hemp, establishing a comprehensive framework for production, research, and patient access.

• Salta City Council approved a medicinal cannabis project, creating an Advisory Council for health care and scientific research coordination.
• Defensoría del Pueblo urges local cannabis registry due to national program saturation and legal access challenges in Buenos Aires.

🔬 Scientists validate cannabidiol’s effectiveness for treating a difficult-to-manage type of epilepsy.

• Research supports the therapeutic potential of cannabidiol in epilepsy management. The study highlights the need for further exploration of cannabidiol’s benefits.

Europe (EU): Brussels Seeks Hemp Clarity as EFSA Probes CBD and EUDA Ships Cannapol

🏛️ The European Parliament adopted a resolution outlining its vision for the future Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) after 2027. The resolution stresses the CAP’s fundamental role in ensuring food security, supporting farmers’ livelihoods, and contributing to environmental sustainability.

• Key priorities for industrial hemp were discussed by European Industrial Hemp Association (EIHA) new Managing Director Francesco Mirizzi.
  • The European hemp sector may soon see long-awaited regulatory clarity, as Brussels takes steps toward harmonizing rules across member states.
• European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) launched a public consultation on the safety of cannabidiol (CBD) as a novel food, inviting comments by the deadline.
• The EU Drugs Agency (EUDA) launches Cannapol, an evidence-based toolkit to guide member states on adult-use cannabis regulation and harm-reduction policies.

Israel: Market Consolidation Advances Amid Political Turbulence

🏛️ Minister’s advisor May Golan arrested after cannabis seedlings found during a corruption investigation involving public funds misuse.

💼 Intercure acquires Botanico for NIS 30 million in a two-phase aquisition, gaining access to American cannabis brands and advanced growing technologies.

• Innocan Pharma partners with Freedom Farm to provide Liposomal Delivery Tecnhology CBD treatment for injured animals, improving their pain and quality of life.
• IM Cannabis Corp. regained compliance with Nasdaq’s stockholders’ equity requirement, ensuring continued listing on the Nasdaq Capital Market.
  • IM Cannabis announces board changes and explores new business opportunities for long-term growth and shareholder value enhancement.

France’s Political Instability Stalls Medical Rollout

🏛️ Political turmoil in France disrupts the generalization of a medical scheme, affecting healthcare stability and access for citizens.

• UNESCO’s Mondiacult 2025 will feature cannabis in its cultural agenda for the first time, marking 100 years since its prohibition.

💼 Political instability delays medical cannabis deployment, risking treatment for 1,500 patients if regulations aren’t established by March 2026.

• Chenevia authorised to launch a research program on medical cannabis cultivation, aiming to establish a sector of excellence in Brittany.
• Normandy producer Jérôme Lecoq prepares a bill to defend the cannabis industry against unfair foreign competition without legalizing it.
• Rising CBD poisoning cases due to synthetic cannabinoids, leading to severe health risks and legal issues for sellers.

Portugal Regulatory Turmoil Comes Under Scrutiny

🏛️ Portugal’s medical cannabis export system has been exploited by mafias, leading to drug trafficking and money laundering operations across Europe and Africa.

• Infarmed inspectors allowed large quantities of medicinal cannabis from shell companies to be trafficked to Northern Europe and Africa.
• 48-year-old man extradited from Netherlands to Portugal for leading cannabis trafficking criminal group across Europe and Africa.
• Political discussion heats up at PTMC, with Liberals in favour of legalisation, centre-right Social Democrats have dissenting opinions, while right-populist Chega apposes recreational reform but accepts medicinal access.

💼 Portuguese exports have surpassed 33 tonnes in the first 8 months of the year, more than the 31 tonnes exported in the whole of 2024. Germany remains the top destination with 27 tonnes.

• Portocanna hosted a symposium on medicinal cannabis for doctors on September 24.

Poland’s Patient Support Grows Faster Than Physician Education

💼 S-Lab launches new Spiced Latte strain in Polish pharmacies, featuring 22% THC and less than 1% CBD and Lilac Diesel, a new sativa-dominant hybrid, expanding their product offerings.

🔬 Public understanding of medical cannabis in Poland 7 years after legalization: findings from a cross-sectional study: public support is high, and many would accept using medical cannabis if prescribed. However, there is a disconnect between support and practical implementation: few people get recommendations, and confidence in knowledge (for both patients and physicians) is low.

Slovenia: Employers Oppose Personal Use Law

🏛️ Slovenia legalized medical cannabis, proposes personal use law, faces employer opposition over workplace safety and health concerns.

 Austria: Study Reveals Cannabis May Quadruple Diabetes Risk

🔬 Researchers present findings pointing to increased diabetes risk on long-term cannabis users.

Denmark’s Medicinal Cannabis Companies Hire Pharma Talent

💼 CEO of Tetra Pharm Technologies hires Novo Nordisk executives, showing intense competition for new biotech employees in recent years.

Lituania Sets a Bioeconomy Course for Fibre and Farming

💼 Lithuania aims to develop a strategic “Hemp 2035” program to enhance the fiber hemp sector for agriculture and bioeconomy.

San Marino First Licensed Producer Completes Harvest

🏛️ San Marino’s Health Farm becomes the first licensed medical cannabis producer, navigating regulatory challenges and focusing on sustainable practices.

New Zealand Patients Save on Scripts as Calls for Decriminalisation Grow Louder

💼 Rua Bioscience has launched a nationwide campaign urging the New Zealand parliament to decriminalise personal cannabis use and cultivation.

• Cannabis Clinic launched its Supported Access Programme (SAP) reducing the cost of some medicinal cannabis products: since April the scheme has filled 5500 prescriptions for about 5200 patients, and has saved them almost $300,000.

Uruguay: Pharmacies Upgrade to Magistral Preparations to Expand Patient Access

🏛️ Pharmacies in Uruguay have been awarded licenses to produce magistral preparations for cannabinoids, aiming to expand access to treatments, train professionals, and adjust usage rules.

• The Uruguayan Ministry of Public Health (MSP) and the Institute for the Regulation and Control of Cannabis (IRCCA) announced a package of measures, including the inclusion of CBD in the therapeutic formulary and improvements to adult-use regulations to better meet demand.
• Uruguay’s National Medical Cannabis Access Program aims to include registered cannabinoid-based medicines in the national therapeutic formulary, ensuring both public and private healthcare providers offer them, while expanding beyond CBD to new cannabinoid formulations.

Colombia: Drug Policy Legalisation Debate Reignites

🏛️ The debate over the legalisation of drugs as the best tool to combat drug trafficking has been reignited in Colombia’s pre-election campaign.

💼 Colombia is considering a decree that could transform the landscape of scientific research on medical cannabis by allowing universities and entities recognized by Colciencias to access exclusive licenses for non-commercial academic studies.

Chile CBD Nanoemulsion Shows Veterinary Promise

🏛️ On September 27, Santiago hosted a new edition of the “Cultivate Your Rights” march, which brought together thousands of people demanding changes to cannabis laws.

🔬 University of Chile developed a CBD nanoemulsion effective against breast cancer in dogs, with potential applications in human medicine.

Sri Lanka Legal Cultivation Sparks Economic Hopes

🏛️ Sri Lanka legalized cannabis cultivation, facing criticism over health risks and economic viability from various institutions and experts.

• Sri Lanka’s president embraces pro-market reforms, plans cannabis exports, and seeks foreign investment to recover from economic collapse.

Japan’s CBD Scare Triggers Action on THC Thresholds

💼 Niinami purchased CBD supplements, which may be illegal depending on THC levels, prompting discussions on cannabis regulation in Japan.

Chinese Pan-Genomic Analysis Reveals Genetic Diversity

🔬 Pan-genome analysis of Cannabis sativa: Insights on genomic diversity, evolution, and environment adaption. Constructed Cannabis pan-genome reveals 32,428 genes, highlighting genomic diversity, adaptive traits, and implications for breeding practices.

India’s Vape Safety Under Scrutiny Due to Heavy Metal Contamination

🔬 Heavy metals from cannabis vapes, like nickel and lead, pose health risks and require regulatory attention: factors influencing metal leaching include device integrity, age, temperature, and vape liquid composition. Further research needed to improve vape design and packaging information.

Lebanon Prepares National Plan for Licensed Cannabis Cultivation

🏛️ Lebanon’s Agriculture Minister discusses plans to legalise cannabis cultivation, emphasizing cooperation for successful implementation and public awareness.

Kazhakstan Industrial Hemp Legalisation Opens Doors to Cross-Border Investment

💼 Kazakhstan legalises industrial hemp, attracting investments from China and Italy for cultivation and processing projects in pharmaceuticals and textiles.

Botswana Strategic Partnership Boosts Industrial Hemp Development

💼 Memorandum of Understanding signed in Gaborone between Botswana Investment and Trade Centre (BITC) with Hemp Innovations Europe, a Swedish company specializing in hemp collaboration platforms across Europe.

Zambia Cannabis Reform Faces Political and Expertise Hurdles

🏛️ Zambia’s cannabis reform struggles due to political will, military control, and lack of expertise in cultivation and management.

Malawi CBD Products Promoted as Path to Economic Transformation

🏛️ Malawi‘s Cannabis Research Authority promotes CBD products and aims for economic transformation through sustainable cannabis agriculture at the National Agriculture Fair.