Germany’s Cannabis Crossroads: Progress, Profits, and Public Concern

Much has changed in Germany since cannabis was legalized in the spring of 2024. But what does everyday life look like just over a year after the reform?

Cannabis has been legal in Germany since 2024—and the country has transformed. Adults can now grow it themselves, possess it, and organize into so-called social clubs. The reform aims to eliminate the black market, enhance health protection, and improve safeguards for children and adolescents.

Not everyone in Germany views this positively. Lawyer and drug expert Jörn Patzak warns: “The dangers of addiction and psychosis are being downplayed by this political message.” His conclusion: “The state allows it freely, so it must be harmless. From my years in court, I know young people think: If it’s not illegal, it’s not dangerous. We shouldn’t underestimate that message.”

Patzak insists the risks, particularly for young people, must not be downplayed. At the same time, he urges calm: the world hasn’t ended since legalization. Monitoring developments and making adjustments when needed is key.

Industry on the Rise: Cansativa Leads the Way in Germany

Brothers Benedikt and Jakob Sons are profiting from legalization in Germany. They founded Cansativa in 2017, now a leading company in medical cannabis. At their warehouse near Frankfurt, cannabis worth nearly 11 million euros is stored.

“We’ll likely make over 20 million euros in profit this year. Last year, it was 3.5 million after deductions,” said Benedikt Sons.

New legislation has greatly boosted the business in Germany. Sales have quadrupled. Political decisions are vital to the industry.

Benedikt Sons sees legalization as a success but stresses: “Cannabis has no place in the hands of children.” He sees medical cannabis as a key part of pain therapy.

When asked about potential abuse of medical cannabis, such as through online prescriptions, Sons responds: “Drug abuse is as old as drugs themselves. This isn’t unique to cannabis. The benefits of telemedicine outweigh the risks. Our industry must adapt.”

A Family Business with Vision

How did the idea to start a cannabis business arise? “My brother Jakob brought it up in 2016/2017. Then came the liberalization of medical cannabis—and we said: a whole new market is emerging,” said Benedikt Sons.

The brothers make clear they are entrepreneurs, not passionate users. They aim to build an industry and view cannabis as an exciting but demanding product in Germany.

Ongoing Debate in Germany

A year after legalization, the debate continues in Germany. Politicians have set the direction, the industry is booming, but criticism persists. Time will tell whether Germany’s model can truly dismantle the black market and strengthen youth protection.

One thing is clear: Cannabis has taken root in Germany—and will continue to shape society, politics, and the economy for years to come.

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(Featured image by Washarapol D BinYo Jundang via Pexels)

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

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