Is Germany the next ‘weed tourist’ Destination?
Germany has recently approved its first cannabis social club. Celebrating the latest result of the implementation of Germany’s new cannabis reform law.
Germany has recently approved its first cannabis social club. Celebrating the latest result of the implementation of Germany’s new cannabis reform law.
Some regions of Germany however are still not keen on approving such venues. States like Bavaria have stated that they will wield their power to set restrictions which guarantees that permits for new clubs will not be authorised until autumn at the absolute earliest.
Can tourists buy weed in Germany?
As it stands, no. Membership in social clubs will continue to be, heavily regulated with residency in the province being a prerequisite.
The biggest issue concerning legalisation in Germany has been EU red tape which has led to the new law being split into several phases.
The next step for German citizens and visitors alike incorporates plans for retail sales, however, it’s not yet understoodwhen tourists will be included in this.
In April of this year, it became permitted for adults in Germany to carry and grow cannabis but it hasn’t been easy for people to take advantage of the new laws without the presence of cannabis social clubs.
Under the new German laws, cannabis social clubs will be limited to having 500 members and are permitted to sell up to 50 grams of cannabis per customer each month.
The nearby Netherlands has similar rules where the sale and use of small amounts of cannabis is permitted in approved ‘coffee shops’ which are well-known for luring weed tourists who are keen to get high without worry of the law.
With ongoing conversations still happening concerning legalisation in Germany, however, it currently looks doubtful that the nation will become a weed tourist destination just yet.
What are the rules around cannabis use in Germany?
Many supporters and business entrepreneurs in the cannabis world are waiting for the government’s plan for the next phase of the law which will deliver a more comprehensive commercial sales ideal.
There have been passionate arguments surrounding the pros and cons of allowing easier access to cannabis since the landmark legalisation on 1 April.
Only in June, Germany agreed on a string of modifications to the law, including setting restrictions regarding impaired driving and giving separate states additional power to set limitations on cannabis cultivation within their boundaries.
The modifications were ultimately agreed upon to dodge a possible months-long delay in the enactment of the new law and were made, partly to placate the Federal Council.
The Federal Council represents separate states and had attempted to block the legalisation proposition last September, an attempt which ultimately failed.
Whatever the future holds for Germany, unfortunately, the country can’t depend on much international backing.
The United Nations drug control body has again restated that it deems legalising cannabis for non-medical or scientific pursuits an infringement of the international covenant. Although, at the same time it has applauded Germany’s government for minimising its original cannabis goal and making it more restricted.
Lauterbach who has overseen the government’s cannabis legalisation steps explained back in December that the plan for commercial sales would not be released until the second pillar. With legalisation now in effect, however, there has been an increase in pressure to speed up that process. With everything still uncertain, it’s currently doubtful that Germany will become a mecca for weed tourism shortly.
More From Soft Secrets:
Czech Republic to Follow Germany
What Does German Reform Mean For Canna Culture?
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Liz Filmer
