Administrative red tape. - Pot Growing at Cannabis Clubs May Experience Delay
Per German law, people may find themselves waiting longer than anticipated for the introduction of legal marijuana. Allegedly, cannabis social clubs in the country can officially establish cultivation associations from July 1st to grow and share cannabis with members. However, in reality, clubs are anticipated to establish and submit applications for a license within three weeks, according to a request sent to the Cannabis Cultivation Associations Germany (CAD). Spokesperson Jana Halbreiter claims she's unaware of any clubs actively constructing greenhouses or similar facilities. There are approximately 100 of these clubs in Germany.
The problem, in Halbreiter's view, is that clubs lack clarity regarding regulations and timing. Federal states have not yet specified clear rules for obtaining licenses and have, in most cases, failed to designate a responsible authority. When the authority is named, they then have three months to either grant or decline the application, which could lead to additional delays. Additionally, it remains uncertain how prevention measures will be enforced within the clubs.
As a result, clubs have been reluctant to invest sizable funds. Halbreiter also discourages signing leases for production facilities.
A significant amount of enthusiasm was sparked upon the announcement of key details in April 2023; however, then-emerging legal framework conditions led to a decline in the excitement. The exact number of clubs that could begin growing marijuana this year is difficult to predict due to the varying regulations between states.
Despite the uncertainty, Torsten Dietrich from Berlin's Cannabis Social Club remains optimistic about distributing cannabis to members at the start of next year. Originally, the club planned to construct a greenhouse, lease land, and pursue a cultivation association license on July 1st. "I had hoped we'd make it," Dietrich confessed. However, authorities in Berlin are still uncertain about which department should handle the licenses. Some members from the club have since abandoned their membership due to the delays. Dietrich remains determined to adhere to the timeline, aiming for October as the start date.
Berlin's Health Department verified to the German Press Agency that they are "working diligently" on creating regulations for responsible authorities. "There is considerable pressure to get this done - especially in regards to the regulations for cultivation associations," stated a spokesperson.
This week, Halbreiter and Dietrich are preparing for the Hemp Fair "Mary Jane," taking place in Berlin from June 14th to June 16th. The legalization of cannabis has provided a slight boost in visitors. The fair expects about 40,000 attendees, while last year's fair drew around 25,000 people. More than 400 exhibitors worldwide will offer self-cultivation products, smoking equipment, and medical and cosmetic hemp goods.
