Adult-use cannabis cultivation associations are a key component of Germany’s recreational cannabis legalization model. Cultivation associations involve adult consumers registering with a licensed member-based association from which they can source cannabis products legally.

Aspiring cultivation association operators in Germany could start applying to local regulators as of July 1st, 2024. In addition to being legal in Germany, adult-use cannabis cultivation associations are also legal in Malta and Uruguay.

A team of academic researchers affiliated with Aarhus University, Centre for Alcohol and Drug Research, Department of Psychology and Behavioural Sciences in Aarhus, Denmark, recently conducted a study examining the regulatory challenges facing Germany’s cultivation association sector. The researchers’ findings were published this month in the International Journal of Drug Policy.

“This study investigates the challenges faced by Cannabis Cultivation Associations (CCAs) in the early phase of the Act’s implementation. Drawing on Administrative Burden and Regulatory Compliance Theory, it examines how burdens and compliance issues shape the establishment and operation of CCAs, and in turn affect the realisation of the law’s stated policy goals.” the researchers wrote about the aim of their investigation.

“Data were collected through a primarily qualitative mixed–methods approach, combining survey responses from 32 CCAs with seven semi–structured interviews with CCA representatives. Survey data were analysed using descriptive statistics, and interview data were coded and analysed thematically.” the researchers wrote about their methodology.

In total, the study identified 8 main regulatory challenges facing Germany’s emerging cultivation association sector. They include:

1. The need for a “passionate entrepreneur”
2. Funding and financial risks involved
3. Locating suitable facilities
4. Obtaining an association license
5. Unclear legal terminology
6. The 200–metre rule
7. Prohibitions of on–site consumption
8. Ongoing social stigma

“The findings suggest that these challenges create substantial barriers to establishing and operating a CCA, thereby limiting the CCA potential for harm reduction, youth protection, and black–market displacement. Policy adjustments and clearer administrative support structures are needed to prevent exclusion, broaden participation, and support implementation of the Act’s objectives.” the researcher concluded.

A total of 357 cultivation association applications have been approved according to the Federal Association of Cannabis Cultivation Associations’ (BCAv) most recent data. BCAv also lists that 791 total applications have been submitted to date.