As Germany moves to legalize cannabis, the question arises: Will the UK follow? Politicians in the UK will be closely monitoring Germany to evaluating the effects of legalization on drug use and the economy. Should Germany succeed, it could establish a blueprint for the rest of Europe. Given the UK’s substantial underground cannabis industry, the potential for significant tax revenue could prove highly enticing for the government.
When will weed become legal in Germany?
Germany’s government passed legislation to legalize cannabis on the 1st of April 2024 with the aim of reducing crime associated with the illegal drug trade and improving public health by controlling the quality of cannabis on the market.
How will this influence the UK’s stance on cannabis legalisation?
This change will be closely watched by the UK government and could allow policy makers to better understand how a regulated cannabis market impacts health, crime, and the economy. Observing these benefits might prompt UK policymakers to reconsider their stance on cannabis legalization over the coming years, especially if public and political opinion continues to evolve towards a more progressive approach to drug policy.
Germany Vs UK Cannabis Industry Stats
Germany:
- According to statista there are 6.71 million people currently using cannabis.
- It is estimated that around 200,000 people currently grow illegally in Germany.
- The underground cannabis market is valued at about €14.2 billion.
- Legalization could massively increase the market size and generate around €4.5 billion in tax revenue for the German government.
UK:
- According to the BBC there are estimated to be 2-3 regular million cannabis users.
- Roughly 100 – 200 thousand people are involved in some form of cannabis cultivation.
- The underground cannabis market is currently worth approximately £2.6 billionv.
- With legalization, the market could double in size and would produce a sizeable tax revenue each year for the UK government.
What does the change in legalization mean for Germany?
Here’s what you need to know:
- Individuals over 18 can now possess up to 25 grams of dried cannabis and grow up to three marijuana plants at home.
- Since 2021, adults are allowed to carry up to 7 grams of cannabis and cultivate up to four plants at home.
- Starting July 1, as part of ongoing legal reforms, individuals can acquire cannabis through established ‘cannabis clubs’.
- Each regulated club can host up to 500 members, with each member permitted to purchase up to 50 grams of cannabis monthly. Membership availability to foreigners or tourists is still to be determined.
- A comprehensive information campaign is set to launch, highlighting the risks associated with cannabis use, while emphasizing the continued prohibition of cannabis for those under 18 and within 100 meters of schools, kindergartens, and playgrounds.
The UK is slowly softening to cannabis legalisation
The UK is slowly warming up to the idea of easing up on cannabis laws. In a bold move, London’s Mayor, Sadiq Khan, is leading a trial to decriminalize cannabis for the under-25 crowd in three London boroughs. This pilot scheme will give the government a clear picture of how decriminalizing cannabis affects both society and public health. It could even set the stage for sweeping changes to cannabis laws across the country.
How will the legalisation in Germany impact the cannabis industry?
Germany’s decision to legalize cannabis is set to shake up the industry, not just at home but across Europe. As the biggest market in the continent, and with a whopping 4% of Germans already puffing away regularly, the potential for legal sales is huge.
EU and UK cannabis brands are rubbing their hands together, ready to dive into this goldmine. The move could seriously boost their sales and push other countries to follow suit, eyeing up the fat tax profits Germany is set to rake in.
This broader acceptance and market growth could lead to increased investment, innovation, and expansion of cannabis-related businesses across Europe, enhancing the industry’s overall development and stability.
How would legalisation in the UK affect the cannabis industry?
Legalization of cannabis in the UK would have a hugely positive impact on the cannabis industry, given that the UK is one of the largest exporters of legal medical cannabis and has one of the biggest underground cannabis markets globally, valued at approximately £2.6 billion annually.
We spoke to cannabis breeders Auto Seeds on the subject, and they noted, “Already since Germany have announced their legalization, we have seen an increase in interest from potential large-scale producers and home growers looking to get stable autoflower genetics in Germany. Autoflowers tend to be the more popular choice for countries with shorter summers because their small size makes them perfect for indoor grows. If the UK did legalize cannabis, given the weather conditions, we would expect a similar response with many growers opting to choose autoflowers.”
Germany’s upcoming cannabis legalization could signal a change for the UK, inspiring similar moves. If Germany can make this work, the positive impact on tax revenue might just tempt more conservative neighbouring governments to roll with it too. So, here is hoping they decide to ‘leaf’ the old ways behind and embrace a greener future!
