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Poll: 63.83% Consider Complete CanG Reversal To Be Unlikely

Written by Johnny Green on . Posted in Business, Policy.

In the aftermath of a recent federal election in Germany, a majority of the nation’s cannabis industry members consider a complete reversal of the CanG law to be ‘unlikely’ according to a recent poll conducted by the German Cannabis Business Association (BvCW).

BvCW, in its recent poll, asked, “After the federal election: How likely do you think it is that the CanG will be completely reversed?”

The results of the survey found that a combined 63.83% consider a complete reversal to be ‘very unlikely’ or ‘rather unlikely,’ 19.15% consider a partial reversal to be likely, 6.38% responded with ‘rather likely,’ and 8.51% consider it to be ‘very likely.’

Starting on April 1st, 2024, adults in Germany can cultivate and possess a personal amount of cannabis. Additionally, starting on July 1st, 2024, people in Germany can apply to start a cultivation association. Also, cannabis was removed from Germany’s Narcotics List as part of the enactment of the CanG law.

Another major component of the CanG law, which would permit regional adult-use cannabis commerce pilot trials, has yet to launch. Pilot trials were expected to launch late last year. However, after the recent federal election, the launch date for pilot trials is in question.

Leading up to the federal election in Germany, the International Cannabis Business Conference reached out to Germany-based international cannabis policy expert Peter Homberg of gunnercooke for his thoughts.

Peter Homberg predicted that the election would yield a coalition government, which time has proven to be true. Homberg also made another prediction at the time.

“Many statements being made right now from cannabis opponents are being made in an ‘election mode’ and will not necessarily become reality. I expect extreme positions to level out after the election.” Homberg stated at the time regarding candidates campaigning on reversing the CanG law.

As we previously reported, the New Association of Judges (NRV) in Germany recently expressed a positive conclusion regarding legalization and warned newly elected German lawmakers against reversing the CanG law.

“Rolling back the law would mean that the judiciary would have to pursue small consumers on a large scale again. This would mean there would be no time to take action against organized crime.” reported Deutschlandfunk in its local coverage.

“In addition, according to the NRV, the state faces high compensation payments in the event of withdrawal. If the cultivation and consumption of cannabis were to be completely banned again, this would amount to expropriation of the cannabis clubs, it was said. This would enable the clubs to make claims for compensation against the state. The investment in cannabis cultivation is high and the licenses are valid for seven years according to the law.” the outlet also stated.

The Institute for Competition Economics at the Heinrich Heine University in Düsseldorf previously conducted an analysis which found that adult-use legalization could yield as much as 1.3 billion euros per year in savings for Germany’s police and judicial system.

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UK Cannabis Legalization Could Yield £1.5 Billion Annually

Written by Johnny Green on . Posted in Business, Policy.

Adult-use cannabis legalization could generate as much as £1.5 billion in revenue and savings according to a new report by the advocacy group Transform Drug Policy Foundation.

The report, which was posted on the organization’s social media account, determined that over £1.2 billion would be generated from taxes and fees annually, and an additional £284 million would be saved annually by the nation’s criminal justice system no longer enforcing cannabis prohibition policies.

“There would be costs incurred for Govt by regulatory infrastructure – inspection, monitoring, compliance, trading standards etc – but largely covered by licensing/other fees.” the organization stated on social media.

Transform Drug Policy Foundation also determined that “up to 15,500 full-time jobs could be created in cultivation, manufacturing, retail & related services, (depending on the model implemented).”

The report also found that “a regulated market could displace 80% of the illegal trade in five years (based on trends in Canada).” The organization’s proposed legalization model involves permitting home cultivation, cultivation associations, and a government retail monopoly.

A previous analysis published last year by UK-based advocacy group CLEAR determined that legalizing cannabis for adult use in the United Kingdom and taxing and regulating sales could generate as much as £9.5 billion per year based on their proposed model.

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Malaysia Health Ministry Opens Cannabis-Based Product Registration

Written by Hazel Norman on . Posted in Business, Policy.

A major push for limited medical cannabis policy reform and industry regulations took place in Malaysia in 2022, and the nation passed a major milestone this week with Malaysia’s Health Ministry announcing that registration for medical cannabis-based products is now open.

“Those who have sufficient scientific evidence supporting the use of cannabis-based products for medical treatment can come forward to submit their product registration, says the Health Ministry.” reported The Star in its local coverage.

“However, they must comply with the relevant laws, the ministry said in a written parliamentary reply dated March 3.” the media outlet also reported.

Malaysia’s cannabis policies are largely governed by the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 and the Poisons Act 1952, both of which classify cannabis and its derivatives as ‘dangerous drugs.’

Historically, the region that Malaysia is located in is where some of the harshest cannabis laws on earth can be found, and in some ways in Malaysia, can still be found.

Malaysia is one of a handful of countries around the world, most of them located in the same region, that still issues the death penalty for certain cannabis-only offenses. With that in mind, any movement towards permitting medical cannabis is significant.

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Prominent German Financial Institution Enters Cannabis Industry

Written by Johnny Green on . Posted in Business.

Germany’s emerging legal cannabis industry continues to go mainstream, with the latest example of that coming in the form of cannabis company GOC Nexus receiving funding from leading German financial institution Volksbank Donau-Mindel.

Volksbank Donau-Mindel was joined in the successful funding round by a concurrent investment from Synbiotic, Germany’s largest publicly listed cannabis company, and was coordinated by leading European cannabis investment firm The Talman House. Synbiotic is a member of The Talman House.

Volksbank Donau-Mindel and Synbiotic’s funding of GOC Nexus, a cutting-edge cannabis technology company that is revolutionizing the processing of medicinal and recreational cannabis, will create the first production facility of its kind that is compliant with EU-GMP standards.

“Despite significant interest from potential business partners in our services, particularly the microbiological cold plasma treatment of cannabis flowers, many were reluctant to invest upfront.” Stated Dr. David Surjo, CEO of GOC Nexus.

“The initial investments required for a pharmaceutical production facility are substantial, making it impossible to finance entirely from internal resources.” Dr. Surjo said. “After deciding to approach banks, we concentrated on local banks without a presence in the USA or Canada. This was crucial, as international banks often face legal restrictions when dealing with cannabis businesses.”

“We are excited that the cooperative bank Volksbank Donau-Mindel supports our project. Their interest in innovative business models and flexibility were key to our success.” Dr. Surjo also stated.

The significance of this successful funding round cannot be overstated. It is no secret that the legal cannabis industry has struggled to gain consistent access to the world’s banking system, and gaining funding from prominent financial institutions has proven to be particularly difficult for cannabis companies. From that perspective, Volksbank Donau-Mindel’s investment is a very big deal, and a testament to the benefits of cannabis companies becoming members of The Talman House network.

The Talman House is private and exclusive, with dozens of leading cannabis companies already serving as members. It is the largest private network of cannabis investors and executives in Europe and has helped established cannabis companies secure funding, including GOC Nexus.

GOC Nexus’ innovative cold plasma technology designed by an experienced multidisciplinary team, is revolutionizing the cannabis industry through its unique combination of efficiency, product safety, and the preservation of therapeutically valuable compounds.

The company’s patent-pending process combines optimal cleaning performance with careful, gentle treatment. This is achieved through minimal energy input and synergistic cleaning effects of activated plasma particles. Cold plasma processing sets new standards compared to conventional methods. The treatment enhances the product by safely eliminating microbiology while preserving the entourage effect of cannabinoids.

GOC Nexus technology protects the organoleptic properties of the processed material. The terpene profile, essential for the therapeutic entourage effect, remains completely intact. Traditional methods destroy 30-70% of volatile active compounds and destabilize cannabinoids. The trichomes, as production sites of cannabinoids and terpenes, remain undamaged through the gentle cold plasma treatment. This ensures taste, aroma, therapeutic efficacy, and pharmaceutical stability. The optical quality of the flowers is also preserved, increasing patient acceptance.

It is estimated that today more than 50% of cannabis produced worldwide does not meet microbiological requirements. GOC-NEXUS helps cultivators control the microbiological contamination of the final product through a non-thermal, non-radiative remediation service without using any chemical agents.

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Industrial Hemp Regulations To Be Reviewed In New Zealand

Written by Hazel Norman on . Posted in Business, Policy.

The global industrial hemp market is already massive, and likely to continue to increase in size for the foreseeable future. According to a recent market analysis by Technavio, the worldwide industrial hemp market “is set to grow by USD 18.31 billion from 2025 to 2029” at “a CAGR of over 27% during the forecast period.”

New Zealand is a market that is largely struggling to properly get off the ground, however, a recent announcement by government officials that the nation’s hemp regulations will be reviewed could help.

“On Friday, Minister for Regulation David Seymour announced it would review what he called “outdated and burdensome regulations” surrounding industrial hemp.” reports The New Zealand Herald in its local coverage.

“It was the result of years of campaigning by hemp farmers, processors and companies that were hamstrung by regulations developed in 2006, which put licensing for cultivation into the hands of the Ministry of Health.” the outlet also reported.

In addition to the previously cited market analysis by Technavio, IMARC Group also recently published a global industrial hemp market analysis, finding that the global industrial hemp market size “was valued at USD 6.2 Billion in 2024” and will “reach USD 20.9 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 14.5% during 2025-2033.”

“The market is witnessing significant growth mainly driven by the extensive change in legislative landscapes facilitating a more favorable environment for hemp cultivation and processing, thereby facilitating the recognition of hemp’s environmental benefits and diversification of hemp applications across numerous end use industries.” IMARC Group also stated.

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German Cannabis Business Week – Global Industry To Converge In Berlin

Written by Johnny Green on . Posted in Business.

Germany’s legal cannabis industry is experiencing an unprecedented revolution. Thanks to last year’s adoption of the CanG policy modernization measure, every major sector of the nation’s emerging cannabis industry is experiencing growth.

The German Cannabis Business Week will take place during this pivotal moment, bringing together leaders from across the global cannabis industry to Berlin, Germany, beginning on April 28th, 2025. The week will commence with The Talman House’s exclusive investor gathering, held at the prestigious Hotel Adlon Kempinski, an internationally renowned venue recognized for its historic significance and unmatched hospitality.

This private investor event, reserved for The Talman House members, will serve as a strategic forum where key investors and industry experts will examine evolving market dynamics, investment trends, and regulatory shifts shaping the European cannabis sector. Discussions will center on the economic implications of Germany’s legalization model, the expansion of regulated cannabis markets across the EU, and how investors can navigate the rapidly changing landscape.

Following the Talman House event in Berlin, the International Cannabis Business Conference will once again bring its flagship two-day conference to the iconic Estrel Berlin Hotel on April 29th-30th. International Cannabis Business Conference Berlin is Europe’s largest and longest-running cannabis B2B event, and this year’s installment will be bigger and better than ever.

Several important and timely topics will be covered at the International Cannabis Business Conference in Berlin, including Germany’s cultivation associations. As of July 1st, 2024, aspiring cultivation association operators can apply with their local regulatory authorities in Germany. Many association applications are being processed across Germany, with dozens of associations already receiving approval and having launched operations.

Additionally, regional adult-use cannabis commerce pilot projects are expected to launch soon in Germany, and it is sure to be a popular topic at the International Cannabis Business Conference in Berlin. Associations and pilots are expected to proliferate many parts of Germany. Competition is going to increase significantly within Germany’s industry, and a great way to learn how to maximize your opportunities and network with industry leaders is at the International Cannabis Business Conference in Berlin. Register now and save $200 before ticket prices go up on April 2nd at midnight.

Part of the new German CanG law involves permitting adults to cultivate up to three plants in their private residences. Home cultivation legalization is creating a thriving industry sector in Germany. Companies specializing in home cultivation equipment and cannabis genetics are experiencing exponential sales growth within the German market.

Germany’s emerging medical cannabis industry was already the largest in Europe before the nation’s new CanG law took effect. However, since April 1st, 2024, when the first provisions of adult-use legalization became effective in Germany, the nation’s medical cannabis industry has already grown exponentially.

A main contributing factor to the recent growth of Germany’s medical cannabis industry was the removal of cannabis from the nation’s Narcotics List, which was a key component of the new CanG law. The removal of cannabis from the list made it easier for doctors to prescribe cannabis in Germany, in addition to improving the medical cannabis supply chain and boosting domestic medical cannabis production.

Medical cannabis is arguably the biggest winner of Germany’s adult-use policy modernization effort so far, and the boost in patient numbers is still very much in the early stages. Prior to April 1st, researchers estimated that Germany had between 200k and 300k active medical cannabis patients. That number is projected to increase to as much as 5 million in the not-so-distant future. According to a recent report by the Bloomwell Group, prescriptions for medical cannabis in Germany increased by roughly 1,000% between March 2024 and December 2024. Medical cannabis in Germany will be thoroughly discussed throughout German Cannabis Business Week in April.

Over 5,000 cannabis leaders from over 80 countries are expected to be represented at the International Cannabis Business Conference Berlin 2025 and that includes representatives from every sector of the industry, as well as leading international cannabis policymakers and industry service providers. Bring your company to the International Cannabis Business Conference in Berlin to network with the best and take your industry pursuits to the next level. Register now and save $200 before ticket prices go up on April 2nd at midnight. Make sure to secure your spot before the event sells out.

Additionally, serious entrepreneurs and investors looking to gain a footprint in Europe’s emerging legal cannabis industry should join The Talman House network. The Talman House is private and exclusive, with dozens of leading cannabis companies already serving as members. It is the largest private network of cannabis investors and executives in Europe and has helped established cannabis companies secure funding.

Membership in The Talman House provides numerous benefits, including gaining access to ongoing investor events in Europe such as the April 28th event in Berlin that kicks off German Cannabis Business Week. Joining The Talman House is an effective and efficient way to maximize your company’s potential in both Europe and abroad. You can find out more about how to become a member by contacting the Talman team.

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Argentina To Revoke All Medical Cannabis Production Permits

Written by Hazel Norman on . Posted in Business.

In October 2022, regulators in Argentina issued the nation’s first-ever domestic cannabis production license. However, government officials in Argentina announced this month that it plans to revoke all current medical cannabis cultivation permits.

“The Minister of National Security, Patricia Bullrich announced that the Government will cancel permits to grow marijuana.” InfoBae stated in its local coverage.

“We are going to cancel everything, we are going to start from scratch.” Patricia Bullrich stated according to the media outlet.

In April 2023, Argentina’s government participated in the nation’s first legal hemp harvest in roughly 50 years. Starting in 2019, Argentina has made a big push to boost its domestic cannabis industry, particularly as it pertains to science and research. Back then, Argentina’s Ministry of Science and Technology signed an agreement with a local government, the National University, and other entities.

That was followed by a Presidential decree issued in 2020 which provided a way for medical cannabis patients to, in theory, sign up for a government program in order to be able to cultivate their own medicine.

In May 2022, lawmakers in Argentina passed a measure that created the framework for a more robust medical cannabis industry in the South American nation, including provisions for boosting exports around the world. Later in 2022, the government established a public company to provide seeds, testing, and training to the nation’s emerging medical cannabis industry.

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99.7% Of Cannabis In France Remains Unregulated

Written by Hazel Norman on . Posted in Business, Policy.

As of 2022, the European Union Drugs Agency estimated that France had the greatest cannabis consumption rate of any of its member nations, with a reported 10.6% of France’s population having consumed cannabis at least once within the last year.

Unfortunately, cannabis use by adults for recreational purposes remains illegal in France, and only patients enrolled in the country’s medical cannabis trial experiment are permitted to consume cannabis legally. As such, nearly all of the cannabis consumed in France comes from unregulated sources.

“Despite a strict prohibition policy in France, the figures are clear: after the Place Nette operations, 99.7% of the cannabis circulating in France remained on the black market.” reports Newsweed (translated from French to English).

“This observation highlighted by the NORML France association in a report entitled “Why legalize cannabis in 2025” aims to show the ineffectiveness of repressive measures and raises the question of their relevance in the face of a market that continues to prosper.” the outlet also reported.

Health authorities in France announced late last year that the nation’s medical cannabis trial experiment will be extended until July 31st, 2025. The announcement is welcomed news to the reported 1,800 suffering patients estimated to be currently participating in the trial.

“The experiement was due to end on 31 December 2024, but at a meeting on Thursday between patient associations and the health authorities, the Ministry of Health gave the green light for it to run for a further six months, FranceInfo reported.” stated RFI in its local coverage.

The French medical cannabis experiment received initial approval from the federal Senate back in 2019, however, the launch of the trial was delayed until the spring of 2021 due to various reasons.

Initially slated for two years, France’s medical cannabis experiment was eventually granted a one-year extension and was set to end in 2024 before receiving the latest extension pushing the estimated end of the trial to the summer of 2025.

According to a recent newsletter sent out by international cannabis economist Beau Whitney of Whitney Economics, France is home to the largest total addressable cannabis market in the European Union with a value of $11.3 billion (midpoint).

A previous study by an economic advisory board within the nation’s prime minister’s office determined that the French government spends roughly €570m annually on cannabis prohibition enforcement. The study recommended that France adopt adult-use cannabis legalization and launch a regulated recreational industry.

Emmanuelle Auriol, a professor at the Toulouse School of Economics who authored the study’s report and findings, estimated that such a policy change could create as many as 80,000 new jobs, and generate €2.8bn in taxes annually.

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Spain Cannabis Regulatory Measure Amended To Address CBD Products

Written by Johnny Green on . Posted in Business, Policy.

Lawmakers and regulators in Spain are making what appears to be a final push to finally approve and implement a long-awaited medical cannabis regulatory measure. Spain has long been home to a thriving medical cannabis community and market, however, regulations for the nation’s domestic medical cannabis industry have proved to be elusive for years.

The effort to bring Spain’s medical cannabis policies into the modern age passed a major milestone back in October 2024 when the nation’s Ministry of Health published a draft royal decree focused on medical cannabis. The measure is reportedly moving forward, and was recently amended to address concerns over how it would potentially impact CBD products.

“Thanks to the coordinated lobbying efforts of EIHA, alongside other associations and manufacturers, the Spanish government has amended the draft Royal Decree on cannabis regulation from October 2024.” the European Industrial Hemp Association (EIHA) stated about the amendment.

“The risky sentence “regardless of its cannabinoid content”, which posed a serious threat by potentially classifying CBD as a narcotic, has been replaced with: “preparations with a THC content equal to or greater than 0.2% by weight will be considered psychotropic and will be subject to the control measures.”” EIHA also stated.

“This draft Royal Decree establishes the conditions for the prescription, preparation, dispensing, and use of standardised master formulas for cannabis preparations. Likewise, it establishes a register for standardised cannabis preparations used in the elaboration of these master formulas, in order to guarantee their quality.” the official language of the Royal Decree states (translated from Spanish to English).

“In the preparation of this draft, the different normative regulations on the regulation of medical cannabis in countries of the European Union (France, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, Croatia, Portugal, Italy, Germany…) and in third countries (Switzerland, Israel, the United Kingdom, Canada…) have been considered. The review has been carried out considering its scientific basis, based on evidence published in scientific literature, the available information on the functioning of the different systems and their health effects, and the possibility its adaptation to the Spanish regulatory framework.” the Decree also states.

Despite the lack of proper regulations in Spain, the nation’s cannabis industry is thriving, albeit not within a regulated system. Suffering patients deserve to have safe access to safe medical cannabis therapies, and entrepreneurs and investors deserve to operate in a business environment that is built on a strong foundation of certainty.