Growing grass - Challenges faced by cannabis clubs
Germany's first legal cannabis grass might not be ready when expected. While cannabis social clubs can theoretically start growing associations from July 1st to distribute among members, some clubs might not be able to begin within three weeks due to unclear regulations from federal states. CAD President Jana Halbreiter says, "I haven't come across any clubs that are currently building greenhouses or other structures." There are over a hundred clubs across the country.
Lack of planning security complicates things
The issue, according to Halbreiter, is that clubs don't have secure planning. The federal states haven't established clear license regulations and haven't even named the responsible authority in most cases. "The authority that will eventually be named has three more months to either approve or reject the application, which could lead to further delays if the full time frame is used." It's also uncertain how the clubs' prevention work should look precisely.
This hinders most clubs from investing larger funds, states the CAD President. "It doesn't make sense to rush ahead if you don't know where." Therefore, she also suggests against signing rental agreements for production facilities. "After the initial enthusiasm in April 2023 from communication of key points, the legal framework conditions quickly dampened the euphoria." It's hard to determine how many clubs will begin growing this year because of differences between the federal states.
Berlin Social Club aims to start growing in October
Berlin Cannabis Social Club's Torsten Dietrich hopes to distribute the first grass to club members at the beginning of next year. Although he's optimistic, it's becoming tight. Initially, the association intended to build a greenhouse. A plot of land was chosen, and rental agreements were planned to be signed. The license for a growing association should have been applied for on July 1st. "I personally thought we could make it." However, even in Berlin, it's still uncertain which authority holds responsibility. Some members have left due to the delays, says Dietrich. Dietrich still hopes to begin growing in October.
The Berlin Health Department informed the German Press Agency they're "working intensively" on creating a competent authority regulation. "There is a lot of pressure to implement - also regarding the growing association rules," said a spokesperson.
Cannabis fair "Mary Jane" taking place in Berlin
In preparation for the Hemp Fair "Mary Jane," happening from Friday to Sunday (14th to 16th June) in Berlin, Halbreiter and Dietrich will present the fair. The legalization of cannabis has led to a slight increase in visitors. The organizers expect 40,000 visitors. Last year, approximately 25,000 people attended the fair. With over 400 exhibitors from worldwide presenting products for home cultivation, accessories for smoking, and cosmetic and medical hemp products.
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Despite the initial excitement, the complex regulatory environment in Germany is causing delays for cannabis social clubs, such as Berlin Cannabis Social Club, in starting their growing operations. The lack of clear license regulations and responsible authorities designated by federal states is hindering investment and progress, potentially leading some clubs to postpone their plans until the situation becomes clearer.
Germany's legal cannabis landscape is still evolving, as demonstrated by the ongoing discussions within the Berlin Health Department to establish a competent authority regulation for growing associations. This underscores the need for continued coordination and clarity in policy-making to support the formation of registered cannabis clubs across the country.
