Business of Cannabis
When the Cannabis Act came into force in Germany, the aim was to improve the country’s drug policy by changing the way the popular recreational drug was handled. The black market was to be curbed, youth protection strengthened, and the health of consumers better protected through legal access.
Unfortunately, not all of the plans that were originally envisaged could be implemented, and neither the supply of cannabis in social clubs nor telemedicine can meet the demand among the population.
As a result, a large proportion of consumers are still being served by illegal street dealers. Although some of this cannabis is grown in hidden facilities in the country, a great deal of black market goods continue to come from abroad. Because certain countries have moved towards a more liberal policy, it seems understandable that attempts are being made to smuggle cannabis into Germany from these regions.
As was already announced in June, customs authorities have seized a record amount of smuggled cannabis since partial legalisation last year. Cannabis smuggling into Germany is now becoming increasingly common.
Cars, trains and planes
In June, Federal Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil (SPD) presented the latest annual customs statistics in Hamburg, which revealed a surprising result.
While cannabis has been legalised in parts of the country, the cultivation of three plants has been permitted, and cannabis social clubs have been allowed, the smuggling of the most popular previously illegal intoxicant into Germany has also increased significantly.
The amount seized has risen by almost four tonnes compared to 2023, which represents an increase of around 50%. A total of 12,618 kg was found by customs, compared to 8,642 kg in the previous year.
All kinds of transport are used for smuggling: cars, trains and planes. As reported by Welt.de, specialists at the General Customs Directorate highlighted a connection between the sharp increase in cannabis smuggling and partial legalisation in Germany, and see this as at least one of the reasons for the increase in quantity.
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