Germany is the largest legal cannabis market in Europe, so liberalisation has led to an explosion in imports for medical use

Two years after the partial legalization of cannabis in Germany, the country has become the largest regulated market for the drug in Europe. The policy, introduced under Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s government in 2024, allowed adults to possess limited quantities of cannabis for personal use and expanded access to medical cannabis. As a result, imports of medical cannabis have surged sixfold since the law was enacted. However, this growth has sparked political backlash, with conservative parties demanding changes or even the complete reversal of the reform. The data reveals a dramatic increase in medical cannabis imports. According to figures from the Federal Health Institute, cited by the Financial Times, Germany imported 8,143 tonnes of medical cannabis in the first quarter of 2024. By the same period in 2025, that number had risen to 50,539 kilograms. This sharp rise reflects both the expansion of legal access and the growing demand among patients. Despite these developments, the shift has not eliminated the black market entirely. A study from the University of Hamburg found that more than half of German consumers still obtain cannabis outside of official channels, with 35.2 percent relying on informal networks, known as “social supply”, and another 21 percent cultivating their own plants. The original reform aimed to reduce illegal activity by bringing cannabis into the legal framework. Yet, the results have been mixed. While crime related to cannabis has dropped by roughly two-thirds, overall consumption has not declined significantly. Researchers warn that the potency of available cannabis has increased, leading to higher hospitalizations linked to its use. They attribute this trend to the rising concentration of THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. These findings highlight the complex consequences of legalizing cannabis, even as it expands access for medical purposes. Conservative factions, including the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and Christian Social Union (CSU), parties supporting Chancellor Friedrich Merz, have criticized the reform as a failure. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt called the 2024 legislation “a real piece of junk,” arguing it weakened prevention efforts and reduced the state’s ability to combat illegal use. Family Minister Karin Prien has also urged stricter policies to prevent youth addiction. In response, the Ministry of Health has proposed tighter regulations on medical cannabis access, aiming to curb recreational use. The proposal is set to be debated in parliament later this year, though opposition from the Social Democrats (SPD), which holds key seats in the ruling coalition, has already emerged. Political tensions over the issue remain high. While the SPD supports the initial reforms, they now face pressure from conservative allies who argue the policy has created unintended problems. Meanwhile, public sentiment appears divided. Some see the legalisation as a necessary step toward reducing harm and improving patient care, while others worry about the risks associated with increased availability. The debate continues to shape policy discussions, with lawmakers weighing how best to balance public health concerns against the realities of a rapidly evolving market. As the legislative process unfolds, the future of Germany’s cannabis policy remains uncertain. With new proposals on the table and existing laws facing scrutiny, the nation will likely continue to grapple with the challenges and opportunities brought by its progressive approach to cannabis regulation. The outcome could influence similar debates across Europe, setting a precedent for other countries considering similar reforms.