CBD legislation in 2024: France, Europe, United States and Asia

CBD legislation in 2024: France, Europe, United States and Asia

Introduction

In 2024, the legislation surrounding cannabidiol (CBD) continues to evolve globally, with regulations often updated to reflect scientific advances and social changes. In this article, we will explore in detail the current state of CBD in France, Europe, the United States and Asia.

CBD legislation in France in 2024

History and Current Regulations

In France, the legislation on CBD has undergone significant changes in recent years. In 2024, the legal framework continues to be clarified and gradually relaxed, particularly following European judicial decisions.

Current Law and Regulations:

• THC: CBD is legal in France as long as it contains less than 0.3% THC, in accordance with European Union regulations.
• Authorized Products: CBD products derived from EU-authorized hemp varieties are legal. This includes CBD oils, creams, dietary supplements, and CBD flowers.
• CBD Flowers: Following legislative debates and court decisions, CBD flowers are now legally marketable, provided that THC limits are respected.

Judicial Decisions:

• In 2020, the Court of Justice of the European Union ruled that France could not prohibit the marketing of CBD legally produced in another EU country. This decision greatly influenced French legislation, leading to a regularization of CBD-based products.

Challenges and Perspectives

France continues to work on clear and consistent regulations for the CBD industry. Authorities seek to ensure consumer safety while supporting a growing industry.

CBD legislation in Europe in 2024

General Regulations

The European Union (EU) is working to create a harmonised framework for CBD, allowing for smoother marketing and high safety standards across member states.

European Directive:

• THC: The THC limit for cultivated hemp is harmonised at 0.3% across the EU.
• Authorized Products: CBD derived from industrial hemp varieties is legal, and products must comply with EU food safety standards.

Legislation by Country

• Germany: CBD is legal and widely available, with products meeting European standards.
• Italy: CBD is legal, with specific regulations on edibles and flowers.
• United Kingdom: Although outside the EU, the UK allows CBD with a THC content of less than 0.2%, and requires products to be registered with the Food Standards Agency.

Harmonization of Regulations

The EU continues its efforts to harmonise regulations on CBD to facilitate intra-EU trade and ensure consumer safety. Additional guidelines are expected in 2024.

Is CBD Legal in the US in 2024?

Federal and Local Regulations

In the United States, CBD legislation remains complex, with significant differences between federal and state regulations.

Federal Law:

• The 2018 Farm Bill remains in effect, legalizing the cultivation of industrial hemp and its derivative products, including CBD, as long as they contain less than 0.3% THC.
• The FDA continues to regulate products containing CBD, particularly those intended for human consumption, and prohibits certain unproven health claims.

State Legislation

• California: CBD is widely available and regulated similarly to recreational cannabis.
• Texas: CBD is legal, but products must be tested and comply with state regulations.
• New York: CBD is legal, with specific regulations for edibles and topicals.

Challenges and Developments

Disparities between federal and local laws create confusion and challenges for businesses. FDA regulatory clarification is expected to stabilize the CBD market.

CBD Regulation in Asia in 2024

Diversity of Regulations

Asia has a great deal of diversity in terms of CBD legislation. Some countries have strict regulations, while others are beginning to relax their laws.

Countries with Strict Regulations:

• China: CBD is mainly used in cosmetics. Edibles and oils remain largely banned.
• Japan: CBD is legal, but products must not contain any THC.

Countries with Relaxed Regulations:

• Thailand: In 2019, Thailand legalized the medical use of cannabis, including CBD, and is encouraging research and development in this sector.
• South Korea: CBD is legal for strict medical uses and must be prescribed by a doctor.

Evolution and Perspectives

Asia is seeing growing interest in CBD, with research and legislative discussions underway in several countries. The Asian CBD market could see rapid expansion if regulations continue to ease.

Conclusion

In 2024, CBD legislation still varies considerably around the world, reflecting different legislative approaches and cultures. In France and Europe, regulations continue to evolve toward harmonization and increased clarification. In the United States, the situation remains fragmented, but progress is expected. In Asia, while regulations are varied, several countries are showing signs of easing and growth in the CBD sector. For consumers and businesses, staying informed about local regulations is essential to effectively navigate the CBD legal landscape.