The issue of cannabis legalization in France has been the subject of much debate in recent years. While several European countries such as Germany have already taken the step, France seems to be slowly moving towards possible legalization, particularly in the medical field. Let's take a closer look at the current situation and the outlook for 2025.
Current state of cannabis legislation in France
Currently, the cultivation and consumption of cannabis remain illegal in France. However, significant progress has been made regarding therapeutic cannabis[1][3].
Experimentation of medical cannabis
An experiment on the therapeutic use of cannabis began in March 2021 and was initially scheduled to end in March 2024. This experiment has been extended until December 31, 2024 at the latest[5].
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Promising results
The French National Agency for the Safety of Medicines (ANSM) has announced that treatments based on medical cannabis will be available in France in 2025, following the conclusive results of the experiment[3].
Medical Cannabis Outlook for 2025
The marketing of cannabis-based medicines is planned for 2025. However, several steps remain to be taken, including the European consultation[2].
Challenges to overcome
Despite the optimistic announcements, obstacles persist:
- The implementing texts have not yet been published
- The notification to the European Commission has not been made within the planned deadlines
- Political arbitrations are still necessary[1]
Recreational cannabis
The question of the legalization of recreational cannabis remains more controversial. Although some MEPs advocate for it, the current government is oppose[6].
Economic and social issues
Agricultural potential
Some regions, such as Creuse, hope to develop an industrial agricultural sector around cannabis. However, production costs remain a significant obstacle[2].
Public health
The main objective of legalization would be to break the black market and protect consumers. Scientific studies suggest that cannabis could be less dangerous than alcohol and tobacco[6].
Conclusion
Although the complete legalization of cannabis in France by 2025 seems unlikely, significant advances are expected in the medical field. The marketing of cannabis-based medicines represents an important step towards a possible evolution of the legislation. However, many political and regulatory challenges remain overcome.
FAQ
- Q: Will medical cannabis be available in France in 2025?
A: Yes, the ANSM expects cannabis-based medications to be available in 2025.
- Q: Will the cultivation of cannabis for medical purposes be authorized?
A: The details of production are not yet clarified, but an agricultural sector could develop.
- Q: What are the main obstacles to legalization?
A: The main obstacles are political, regulatory and economic.
- Q: Will recreational cannabis be legalized in 2025?
A: This is unlikely, as the current government is focusing on it oppose.
- Q: What are the
What are the expected benefits of legalizing medical cannabis?
A: The main benefits are the relief of some chronic pain and the reduction of the black market.
Quotes:[1] https://www.newsweed.fr/legalisation-cannabis-medical-france-2026/ [2] https://france3-regions.francetvinfo.fr/nouvelle-aquitaine/creuse/gueret/des-medicaments-a-base-de-cannabis-d-ici-2025-la-creuse-peut-elle-tirer-son-epingle-du-jeu-3055750.html [3] https://www.ouest-france.fr/societe/cannabis/cannabis-medical-des-traitations-availables-en-2025-promet-lagence-du-medicament-2337f42e-d012-11ee-89c0-6cefac77e04a [4] https://www.touteleurope.eu/societe/les-legislations-sur-le-cannabis-en-europe/ [5] https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/actualites/A16479 [6] https://www.liberation.fr/politique/legalisation-du-cannabis-la-coalition-temporelle-peine-a-trouver-sa-ligne-20241105_5W3P4WTRZNCCLEDLAAKDMBEWGU/ [7] https://www.lemoniteurdespharmacies.fr/therapeutique/medicaments/recherche-et-innovation/cannabis-medical-fin-des-traitations-en-january-2025
