Hemp will get legal recognition in Switzerland

Switzerland is moving closer to legalizing recreational cannabis after a parliamentary commission proposed a law for regulated access and sale. On February 14, 2025, the health commission of the lower house of parliament voted 14 in favor, 9 against, and with 2 abstentions, advocating for adults to have “strictly regulated access to cannabis”.

Currently, cannabis can only be legally purchased for medical use or if it contains less than 1% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component. Despite this, many consumers rely on illegal channels for their supply. A 2022 survey revealed that about 4% of individuals aged 15 to 64 had consumed cannabis illegally in the previous month, highlighting its prevalence in society. The commission noted that the existing prohibitive approach is ineffective and called for a shift towards legalization with strict regulations to address public health concerns.

The proposed legislation allows adults over 18 to grow, purchase, possess, and consume cannabis while maintaining protections against passive smoking. Individuals would be permitted to cultivate up to three plants for personal use. Commercial production would also be allowed but under stringent regulations, including neutral packaging and warning labels. Importantly, the sale of cannabis would operate under a state monopoly, with profits directed towards prevention and addiction support rather than private gain.

The Swiss Hemp Interest Group welcomed this proposal as a significant milestone in cannabis policy, while the Swiss People’s Party expressed strong opposition, arguing that it trivializes the risks associated with drug use. The proposal is expected to undergo further discussions and could ultimately be subject to a popular vote as part of Switzerland’s direct democratic process.

In summary, this legislative initiative marks a potential shift in Switzerland’s approach to cannabis regulation, aiming to create a controlled market that prioritizes public health and safety while addressing the realities of cannabis consumption in society.