These questions not only concern consumers, but also experts and, of course, ourselves. In our opinion, Switzerland is taking an important step with its planned cannabis law to bring the market out of the grey area and suppress the black market.But what exactly has been decided, how will legalization be implemented and what rules will there be? We have summarized the most important facts for you, so stay tuned!
Switzerland is now facing a historic change in its drug policy, who would have thought it - cannabis is to be legalized, but not immediately and not without clear rules! In January 2024, the Health Committee of the National Council passed a draft law to allow the regulated supply of cannabis to adults. The aim:
The consultation process is currently underway, where the various interest groups can express their opinions. If everything goes according to plan, legalization could become a reality by 2027. In other words, your patience is required, but the course has been set.
However, with eventual legalization naturally comes many questions, so let's look at the central question - where can you buy, use and grow cannabis? -
The good news is that private individuals will be allowed to grow up to three cannabis plants for their own use. This gives you the opportunity to secure your own supply without having to rely on the black market. Safe and regulated, we think that's great.
Cannabis should not simply be available everywhere. Instead, Switzerland is planning a regulated market with licensed sales outlets that are subject to strict conditions. Pharmacies and specialist stores could play a central role in this.
The public consumption of cannabis remains restricted. Similar to the pilot projects already underway, consumption could be restricted to private spaces or cannabis clubs to ensure the protection of minors.
In order to make the market fair, an incentive tax on cannabis products is being introduced. This should prevent cannabis from being sold too cheaply and at the same time finance prevention measures and the protection of minors.
So there are many ideas in the room that have one thing in common: They want to provide you with a safe framework in which you can consume cannabis legally, completely without a shady black market.
A major debate revolves around the question: who should be allowed to sell cannabis in the future? While some countries are relying on state monopolies, IG Hemp is calling for a market-oriented approach.
The IG Hemp Switzerland, the most important lobby group in the cannabis industry, rejects a state monopoly on sales. Why:
01. More variety, less black market: State monopolies, such as in Quebec (Canada), have led to many people continuing to turn to illegal suppliers because the product selection is too limited.
02. Economic stability: Private specialist stores could operate profitably while ensuring high standards of quality and advice.
03. Responsible outlets: Licensed specialist stores with trained staff could ensure that you receive the right advice and that the quality of the products remains guaranteed.
In addition to specialist stores, there are other models:
One of the most important questions remains: Does the new model really work?
Supporters of legalization argue that a regulated market with high-quality products and strict controls will make the illegal trade unattractive.
However, critics fear that overly strict rules or high prices will continue to keep the black market alive. This has already happened in countries such as Canada and some US states. It will therefore be important to find the right balance between regulation, consumer protection and an attractive legal market.
Until then:
Switzerland is on the way to legalizing cannabis, but the process is not yet complete. Regulation could come into force by 2027 if parliament approves the plans. The focus is on a controlled market in which sales take place via licensed specialist stores and pharmacies, while home cultivation is to be permitted to a limited extent.
Whether this model successfully suppresses the black market and makes consumption safer remains to be seen. One thing is certain, however: with this reform, Switzerland is sending a strong signal for a modern and realistic drug policy.