EU to Consider Reforms to Improve CBD Accessibility

By Samuel GarnerDrug Legalization Economics

EU to Review Reforms Aimed at Increasing CBD Accessibility in the Region

The European Commission is beginning discussions on potential reforms related to the production rules for industrial hemp plants and CBD extracts. The first proposed reform would grant licensed producer status for therapeutic CBD products to five private companies located in the Czech Republic, Slovenia, Switzerland, France, and the United Kingdom. This move would legalize their activities within the European region, even if, in some cases, it conflicts with the local laws of the countries where these companies are based.

The second reform would raise the allowable THC concentration limit in CBD products. This change would simplify the procedures for planting and cultivating industrial hemp in EU countries and allow a greater variety of CBD extract products to enter the European market.

Details of the Proposed Reforms

Under the first reform, the EU plans to grant products from the specified companies the status of “innovative food products.” In practice, this would allow these organizations to legally produce, process, and distribute hemp and related products without the risk of sanctions—at least from EU authorities and member states. Supporters believe these measures could significantly increase the availability of CBD products in the region and pave the way for further reforms in this area.

The second proposed reform could have an even greater impact on the future of Europe’s cannabis industry. It would raise the regional THC impurity standard to the global benchmark of 0.3%, up from the current 0.2%. As a result, the THC concentration in industrial hemp oils could reach up to 7.5 mg per kg of product, while in food products (including everything from hemp flour to seeds), the THC concentration would be limited to 3 mg per kg.

Next Steps

For now, the European Commission’s council is only beginning to discuss these reforms. The EU’s final decision on these issues, as well as the implementation plan if the reforms are approved, will be announced in the coming weeks.

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