Czech Lower House Passes Bill to Regulate HHC and Related Substances

The lower house of the Czech Republic has approved a bill aimed at regulating certain psychoactive substances, including kratom (a plant-based analgesic), HHC (a synthetic cannabinoid with effects similar to THC), and other newly identified compounds. The list of regulated substances may be expanded in the future.

These substances are classified as “psychomodulatory”—they are considered to pose a relatively low risk of adverse social or health effects.

Key Provisions of the Bill

• Products containing these substances will only be sold to adults in specialized stores.
• Packaging must not resemble regular candy or toys.
• Such products cannot be purchased from vending machines or ordered online from other countries.
• Online orders within the country will require age verification at both the time of purchase and delivery.

The State Agricultural and Food Inspection Authority will oversee compliance with sales regulations, while the Council for Radio and Television Broadcasting will monitor the advertising ban. Both distributors and retailers will need permits issued by the Ministry of Health.