Malta became the first nation in both Europe and the European Union (EU) to legalize recreational cannabis production, possession, and use, indicating that things have reached a tipping point in Europe. Luxembourg has announced similar intentions (and a similar concept), although they would first be restricted to the public sale of seeds.

A new law enables those over the age of 18 to possess up to seven grams (0.25 ounces) of marijuana and four plants at home. Additionally, it enables non-profit organizations with a membership of up to 500 persons to cultivate the plant for their members.

Moreover, the legislation will relax penalties for anyone found in possession of significant quantities of cannabis. Adults caught in possession of up to 28 grams of cannabis for personal use may face a tribunal rather than a court, as well as a maximum fine of €100 euro ($113).

Even the Dutch, despite their increased government involvement in industrial regulation, have not gone this far. Switzerland is not a European Union member. Portugal and Germany are on the verge of taking the next step but have yet to do so. Luxembourg has emerged from obscurity, but for the sole purpose of establishing a public seed market (for the time being).

Will Other EU Countries Follow the Steps of Malta?

It was just a matter of time until this happened. Recreational cannabis reform has become a hot topic throughout Europe in recent months, even if it hasn’t progressed as rapidly as it has in Malta. The new coalition government in Germany, Europe’s biggest economy, has said that recreational usage would be legalized as early as next year.

Spain and the Netherlands, among other EU states, allow cannabis consumption and cultivation for personal use to varying degrees, while the Czech Republic and Portugal have decriminalized cannabis for personal use.

Medical marijuana is also legal in a wide number of nations throughout the world. Austria, Croatia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, North Macedonia, Poland, Romania, Slovenia, and the United Kingdom are among the European nations on the list.

While such advancements are undoubtedly exciting, do not expect everything to go according to plan. There are still a few major roadblocks to overcome before the sector can resume regular operations. While individual nations will begin to go in the recreational direction, the issue will still need regional attention.