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CBD in Switzerland: buying/selling, cultivation and legislation
What if, beyond watches and chocolate, we told you that Switzerland also has one of the most developed cannabidiol industries in Europe! Would you believe us?
Well, you should know that Swiss CBD is becoming increasingly popular with consumers. Furthermore, in Switzerland, CBD is available in a wide range of products: food, drops, capsules, oils, cosmetics, skincare, sprays, cigarettes, etc.
In short, you’re spoilt for choice, but do you know where Swiss legislation stands on CBD?
Let’s take a look at what you need to know about this.
CBD in Switzerland: what does the law say?
Since early March 2017, ‘light’ cannabis (more commonly known as CBD), and more specifically its cultivation and sale, have been authorised in Switzerland, provided that the THC content remains below 1%.
This new authorisation has led to a veritable boom in supply and demand. Indeed, according to the Federal Customs Administration, the country has gone from 5 CBD producers in 2017 to 630 in July 2018.
THC vs CBD: what are the differences under Swiss law?
Why has such authorisation been granted for CBD but not for THC?
The difference is quite obvious. Whilst the two molecules have exactly the same chemical composition, they are “arranged” differently. Thus, THC is considered a narcotic due to its psychoactive effects which can lead to various harmful long-term consequences; whereas CBD offers numerous therapeutic benefits without being habit-forming.
Furthermore, although possession of less than 10 grams of cannabis containing THC is permitted in the country, its consumption remains illegal and may result in a fine. Cannabis containing less than 1% THC is the only type authorised for sale and consumption in Switzerland.
This is still three times higher than the permitted THC content in other European countries (0.2% for CBD in France, for example). This may perhaps be explained by the provision of THC/CBD tests to law enforcement agencies, which allow for rapid detection during a stop.
>>Find out more about Sixty8 and CBD production in Switzerland<<
Legislation for CBD producers in Switzerland
Every CBD producer in Switzerland who embarks on the cultivation of legal hemp is subject to self-monitoring to provide the FOPH with a laboratory report certifying the THC content of their plants if these are intended to be smoked.
CBD production remains largely unregulated in the country and there are no official procedures governing it. On the other hand, as CBD has therapeutic properties, the organisation with the final say on the sale of a CBD-containing product in pharmacies is Swissmedic. This is notably the case with Epidyolex, a CBD-based medicine, which has been authorised on prescription as an adjunctive treatment for children with epilepsy.
>>See our Swiss CBD flowers in the shop<<
The Swiss CBD market: how is it faring?
The CBD market in Switzerland is booming. With nearly CHF 60 million (approximately €54 million) generated in 2017, forecasts for this industry predict turnover reaching CHF 320 million (approximately €288 million) within the next 5 years.
In 2019, the price of CBD per kilogram fell dramatically, making it more difficult to maintain competitive production. Furthermore, other countries such as Spain, which has greater resources and larger areas of land, have entered the CBD flower market, making competition even fiercer. However, Switzerland, which has no shortage of resources, retains its lead in the production of processed products, particularly oils.
Swiss CBD producer: getting started in hemp cultivation
Since 1 January 2021, according to theFederal Office for Agriculture, therestrictions on the agricultural cultivation of hemp haveall been lifted provided that the crop is not intended for the sale of cannabis as a narcotic. There is therefore no need for prior authorisation, although it is safer to notify the authorities in advance. Furthermore, the cultivation of hemp, which covers an area of 243 hectares, is not encouraged in Switzerland, unlike other agricultural activities, and therefore does not qualify for direct payments.
In theory, therefore, anyone can start growing industrial CBD or organic CBD in Switzerland, amongst other things. Nevertheless, it is best to do your research properly beforehand, particularly regarding infrastructure, environmental conditions, necessary products, etc.; this represents a significant initial investment and requires specific expertise.
With the 1% THC limit, Switzerland is a particularly attractive option for international companies wishing to enter the European market. It should be noted, however, that there is some ambiguity in the laws of EU member states, which only permit products containing less than 0.2% THC. Thus, for example, it is entirely possible to have Swiss CBD delivered to France, provided it complies with the limits imposed by French legislation. Similarly, a French person wishing to purchase CBD in Switzerland must ensure that it complies with their country’s standards.
And what about consumers?
For a market to thrive, there obviously need to be customers. According to certain surveys, CBD consumers are fairly young, as 56% of them are said to be between 18 and 40 years old. Women also account for over 30%, and 41% of consumers are said to hold a university degree or have graduated from a prestigious higher education institution. In terms of favourite products, many people opt for CBD flowers or CBD oil. Furthermore, there is also a growing range of CBD-based products for animals.
Anxiety, stress, inflammation, etc. – CBD is a ‘miracle’ plant that provides relief from many ailments. Not only do studies already conducted confirm the benefits attributed to CBD, but for other organisations such as Addiction Suisse, the findings are also highly positive. Finally, cannabis extracts in Switzerland have higher concentrations of all cannabinoids, making them far more appealing to consumers. This allows you to benefit from the cannabinoid entourage effect.
So, whether you’re a producer or a consumer, Switzerland is a logical choice when it comes to CBD. Discover our Swiss CBD products and see for yourself!
CBD laws vary significantly from one country to another. If you’d like to find out more about CBD legislation in France and Europe, we recommend our blog posts:
