Germany has become Europe’s largest regulated cannabis market after partially legalising cannabis in 2024, with medical cannabis imports rising sharply and the industry expanding rapidly. The country introduced the Cannabis Act (CanG) on April 1, 2024, allowing adults to possess limited amounts of cannabis, grow plants privately, and join non-profit cannabis clubs. The reform also expanded access to medical cannabis through prescriptions.

Germany has become Europe’s largest regulated cannabis market after partially legalising cannabis in 2024, with medical cannabis imports rising sharply and the industry expanding rapidly.

The country introduced the Cannabis Act (CanG) on April 1, 2024, allowing adults to possess limited amounts of cannabis, grow plants privately, and join non-profit cannabis clubs. The reform also expanded access to medical cannabis through prescriptions.

However, Germany has not introduced a full commercial retail market for recreational cannabis. Instead, the current system focuses on personal cultivation, cannabis clubs, and regulated medical access.

Germany’s medical cannabis market has grown significantly since the reforms.

According to data cited in recent reports, medical cannabis imports increased from 8,143 kilograms in the first quarter of 2024 to 50,539 kilograms in the first quarter of 2026.

A University of Hamburg study found that more than 200 tonnes of cannabis were available in Germany in 2025, including around 2.6 tonnes produced domestically. The market was valued at approximately $997 million in 2025, according to cannabis market intelligence firm Prohibition Partners.

The rapid growth of the market has also triggered political debate in Germany.

Critics from conservative parties have called for stricter controls, arguing that the reform could create public health risks and increase access among young people. The government has considered tighter rules for medical cannabis, including restrictions on online prescriptions and deliveries.

Supporters of the reform argue that regulation has reduced pressure on law enforcement and helped move cannabis access into a controlled system.

Researchers say the illegal cannabis market has declined since legalization, while overall consumption has remained relatively stable.

Experts argue that stronger regulation, clearer THC labeling, and better public education could help address health concerns without reversing legalization.

Despite the challenges, Germany’s cannabis reforms have transformed the country into the leading regulated cannabis market in Europe. The future of the industry will depend on how policymakers balance legal access, public health protections, and market regulation.

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