Legal Sale of Cannabis in Germany: Pilot Projects in Frankfurt and Hanover

In 2024, Germany took its drug policy reform to the next level by launching pilot projects that allow the legal sale of cannabis for adult use. In Frankfurt and Hanover, pioneering initiatives have been launched that could become models for future national cannabis regulation.

Germany’s drug policy is undergoing a transformation. Since April 2024, after months of political debate, adults in Germany have been allowed to possess up to 25 grams of dried cannabis and grow up to three marijuana plants. The next step, which came in July, was the introduction of so-called “cannabis social clubs,” where members can collectively grow and distribute marijuana, but the initiative has faced numerous legal and organizational challenges.

Details of the cannabis project in Hanover

Hanover, led by Green Party Mayor Belit Onay, is launching a five-year project that will allow 4,000 city residents to legally purchase cannabis. Participants will register online or at designated stores, receiving pseudonymous identification cards that will allow them to buy cannabis at three authorized points of sale.

The goal is to monitor the social, health and economic effects of legalized cannabis, while also reducing problems related to contamination and the increase in THC concentrations in black market products.

Led by the Medical School Hannover (MHH), the study will track participants’ behavior and health outcomes throughout the project.

Details of the project in Frankfurt

Similarly, Frankfurt am Main has launched its own research project under the supervision of Elke Voitl and Artur Schroers. Four stores will be opened to sell cannabis to adults, with a focus on consumer safety and health.

Sanity Group GmbH, experienced in regulated cannabis distribution in Switzerland, is responsible for implementing the project, which also aims to combat the black market by offering pure, tested products.

Expected results and next steps

Both cities have high expectations for their projects. Regulated sales systems are expected to potentially reduce crime related to illegal drug trafficking, reduce health risks associated with contaminated products and improve youth protection. Compliance with German age regulations and health checks are intended to ensure a safe environment for consumers and local communities.

Legalizing cannabis sales in these two cities has the potential to bring significant economic and social changes, both by generating new revenue for the cities and by changing public perceptions of cannabis.

Comparison with other international models

Similar initiatives have been implemented in various parts of the world, including Switzerland and some US states, where regulated cannabis sales benefit both consumers and local governments. The German projects could provide valuable data to help shape future drug policies both in Europe and around the world.

The pilot projects in Frankfurt and Hanover have the potential to become a milestone in the evolution of German and global cannabis policy. The data from these studies could define the future of drug regulation, paving the way for a safer and more regulated future for cannabis use.

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(Featured image by Leonhard_Niederwimmer via Pixabay)

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First published in FaktyKonopne. A third-party contributor translated and adapted the article from the original. In case of discrepancy, the original will prevail.

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