According to Agence France-Presse, a parliamentary commission in Switzerland introduced a draft bill last week proposing the legalization of recreational cannabis use. The proposal indicates that Switzerland may consider allowing the controlled sale and use of cannabis in the future.
The draft was approved by the the lower house of parliament’s health commission with 14 votes in favor, 9 against, and 2 abstentions. The committee’s proposal emphasizes that adults to be “accorded a strictly regulated access to cannabis”.
Currently, cannabis can only be legally purchased in the wealthy Alpine nation for medical use or for non-medical use if it contains less than 1% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
However, the commission highlighted that most consumers obtain cannabis through illegal means. A 2022 Swiss survey revealed that 4% of individuals aged 15 to 64 had used cannabis illegally in the past month. The survey stressed that “cannabis is a societal reality” and called for the legalization of non-medical cannabis use under strict regulation, particularly acknowledging the potential health risks associated with cannabis consumption.
Details of the Draft Proposal
Specifically, the proposal suggests that all Swiss residents aged 18 and above should be allowed to “grow, purchase, possess and consume cannabis.” Additionally, existing laws designed to prevent passive smoking should apply to cannabis sales and use, and the sale of cannabis to minors should be prohibited. The draft recommends that individuals be permitted to grow up to three cannabis plants for personal consumption.
Regarding commercial production, the draft stipulates that cannabis should be strictly regulated to ensure the products meet high-quality standards. All packaging must be neutral, with no brand names, and must include warning labels. Cannabis sales would be managed under a state monopoly, and consumers would only be able to purchase cannabis products from a limited number of licensed stores.
Future Legislative Process
This proposal marks a significant step forward for Switzerland in the legalization of recreational cannabis, but it still faces a lengthy legislative process. The draft must be approved by both houses of parliament and is likely to be subject to a popular vote under Switzerland’s direct democratic system, before it can become law.
Although the proposal has not yet become a law, the potential for recreational cannabis legalization in Switzerland is already beginning to show. The gradual opening of the cannabis market will drive growth in related industries, particularly in demand for herb grinders and other smoking accessories. With the legalization of cannabis consumption, the Swiss market presents a new “blue ocean” for the smoking accessories industry, offering significant potential.
Post time: Feb-20-2025
