Italian Government Continues Push For Ban On ‘Cannabis Light’

Cannabis products that are low in THC, often referred to as ‘cannabis light,’ have grown in popularity among consumers in Europe at a seemingly exponential rate in recent years. Whereas cannabis products that contain large amounts of THC remain largely prohibited on the continent outside of medical products, cannabis light products are widely available.

Unfortunately, not everyone is happy with the new trend. Government officials in Italy are pushing to ban the products completely, which would significantly impact the nation’s emerging cannabis light industry. Such a policy change may also violate European Union policies.

“The proposed change in the law would not only prohibit extracts made from hemp inflorescences containing the non-psychoactive ingredient cannabidiol (CBD), but would also have massive consequences for the industrial hemp industry, warn Italian farmers’ associations.” stated Proplanta in its local reporting.

“If the new regulations come into force, the production, processing and sale of hemp flowers would be prohibited. This applies even if they have a THC content of less than 0.2%.” the outlet also reported.

Currently, cannabis that is not low in THC is legal for adult use in Malta, Luxembourg, and Germany, in addition to Uruguay, Canada, and South Africa. At least 57 countries around the world have adopted medical cannabis legalization measures.

Members of Italy’s emerging cannabis light industry are warning of the negative consequences if/when the country bans the sector’s products. According to members of Italy’s cannabis light sector, around 4,000 hectares are currently dedicated to hemp cultivation, and the industry employs thousands of people. Italy’s consumable hemp industry is estimated to be worth roughly 500 million euros.

According to leading Italian trade group Federcanapa, Italy’s emerging hemp-derived consumables industry includes 3,000 businesses and over 15,000 workers. The global cannabidiol (CBD) market was worth an estimated $7.6 billion in 2023 according to a recent market analysis by Market.us, and will climb to a projected $36.6 in value by 2033.

“Between 2023 and 2032, this market is estimated to register the highest CAGR of 27%.” the researchers stated.