Before we answer this question (which we will later). Let's look at the history of the Cannabis industry in Greece. In the 1800’s Greece outlawed the use and production of Cannabis, however, that didn't deter people and producers at all. The use of cannabis rose after the first world war as the soldiers were using it to keep calm.
In 2016, the Greek government assigned the task to a team to oversee the potential of Cannabis production for medical use. In 2017, the prime minister of Greece decided to allow the use of Cannabis for medical purposes only. This law also allowed Greece to distribute medical Cannabis to patients in need.
Now, back to the question at hand. Cannabis is illegal for recreational use, but legal for medicinal purposes as of 2017. In 2018, the government allowed the cultivation and full production of 0,2% or more tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) by licensed Medical Cannabis farms.
So, What is Cannabis?
It is also known as Marijuana. Cannabis is a psychoactive drug derived from the Cannabis plant. It is used for both recreation and medicinal use in different parts of the world. Make sure you know the rules and laws for Cannabis use in your country.
Greek Drug Law
After Greece passed this law, it saw an influx of people using Cannabis. This high usage turned into a huge and debated issue as drug addicts were trying to use Marijuana. They were doing this and claiming medicinal use when in truth, it was just for recreation.
Drug addicts found it easier to use CBD because the penalties weren’t as bad as getting caught for using drugs like heroin. Using Cannabis recreationally can get you a fine or a prison sentence of 5 months.
When do people use cannabis the most in Greece?
It has been found that Winter is the season when most people use Cannabis. This could be due to many factors, but we can assume that it's because of the colder weather.
Can I grow Cannabis without a License?
According to Greek law, only people with a cultivation license for Medical Cannabis are allowed to grow it. You cannot grow it if you aren’t a licensed medical farmer. If you do grow it without a License, you will face prosecution.
Are tourists allowed to bring their cannabis?
Tourists aren’t allowed to bring Marijuana into Greece, even if it's for medical purposes and if they have a prescription from their country. Greek law doesn't allow it in the country currently.
Can you buy cannabis in Greek stores?
As of August 2022, Cannabis isn’t available for purchase at pharmacies in Greece. It is currently only sold in pharmacies with a License and can only be sold to patients with prescriptions. The Greek government plans to sell it at pharmacies for tourists who have prescriptions from their countries. This plan is to be implemented before the end of 2022.
You can, however, buy Cannabis with a THC of less than 0.2% in pharmacies and online.
In summary
The Greek Cannabis industry is still growing, and there are still some laws that are being implemented for the industry. It is important to remember to do research and ask questions about Cannabis before going to Greece. This will help prepare you if you’re planning to visit the country.
You need to be licensed to grow CBD and to sell it if you’re a pharmacist. Greek law allows the cultivation and production of it. Though, it is illegal for recreational use.
Have more questions about the process?
Contact us for more information, and check out our website for our production process.
