What is THC and how is it different from CBD?

• THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces the “high” sensation
• CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that does not cause intoxicating effects
• THC is classified as an illegal substance in France, while CBD with less than 0.3% THC is legal

Is it legal to consume cannabis flower containing CBD in France?

• Yes, as of December 2022, the French Council of State ruled that consuming CBD flower is legal
• However, the Council warned that smoking CBD flower still presents proven health risks

Key points about CBD flower legality

• The Council of State overturned a government ban on the sale of CBD flower
• CBD is not considered a narcotic substance as it has no psychotropic effect or addictive properties

What about other CBD-based products in France?

• The legality of processed CBD products like oils and edibles is more complex
• CBD extracts are considered “novel foods” under EU regulations and require pre-authorization
• Obtaining authorization from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is very difficult

Challenges for CBD product manufacturers

• The EFSA suspended CBD novel food evaluations in June 2022 citing insufficient data
• Uncertainties remain about potential hazards linked to CBD consumption

Is recreational cannabis with THC legal in France?

• No, consuming recreational cannabis remains strictly prohibited in France
• Possessing or smoking cannabis with THC can result in a €200 fine
• Failure to pay the fine can lead to criminal prosecution with up to 1 year in prison and a €3,750 fine

What is France’s history with cannabis laws?

• France has had a strict anti-cannabis stance dating back to Napoleon’s occupation of Egypt in 1800
• In 1953, France was a key signatory of the Geneva Convention banning cannabis
• A 1991 court case upheld France’s adherence to UN anti-drug treaties to deny medical cannabis imports

Evolving attitudes in the 21st century

• In 2013, France began allowing cannabis-based medical products, but only as a last resort treatment
• The government launched a limited medical cannabis experiment in 2021 for 3,000 patients
• Calls are growing to align France’s cannabinoid laws with the evolving perspectives in Europe