## A Global Shift: New Regulations Shape the Cannabis Landscape
The world is witnessing a dynamic shift in attitudes and regulations surrounding cannabis. From stricter access to medical marijuana in Poland to ultra-strict THC limits in Japan, countries are grappling with how to balance public health concerns with the growing acceptance of cannabis for both medicinal and recreational purposes.
Poland Tightens Access to Medical Marijuana
On October 29th, Poland’s Minister of Health, Izabela Leszczyna, signed a new regulation regarding narcotics and psychotropic substances, significantly tightening access to medical marijuana. This new law, effective seven days after the announcement, mandates that medical marijuana prescriptions can only be obtained in person from a doctor, except for continuations of previously prescribed therapy. Telemedicine consultations for new prescriptions are now prohibited, with only public facilities allowed to issue remote prescriptions.
The Ministry of Health justified these changes by stating that medical marijuana had been prescribed too easily, leading to potential misuse and associated health and social consequences. These stricter regulations, however, are likely to impact less mobile patients, those living in smaller towns, and those unable to move freely.
Thailand: Reversing Decriminalization and Moving Towards Regulation
While Thailand became the first country in Southeast Asia to legalize recreational marijuana use in 2022, it has now reversed its decision, relisting parts of the cannabis plant as a narcotic, effective January 1, 2025. This reversal is a direct response to the lack of proper regulation, which led to a proliferation of cannabis shops across the country.
However, the Thai government has recognized that re-criminalization isn’t the solution and is now focused on developing proper regulations. The new Cannabis and Hemp Act is expected to be finalized within a year, outlining strict guidelines for medicinal use and outlining permissible uses for other parts of the plant, such as textiles made from cannabis roots, branches, leaves, or stems.
Japan Sets Ultra-Strict THC Limits for CBD Products
Japan has taken a markedly different approach to cannabis, imposing some of the strictest THC limits in the world for CBD products. Effective December 2024, the new rules allow only trace amounts of THC, significantly lower than the 0.3% limit commonly found in other countries. These limits are posing major challenges for global CBD suppliers already operating in Japan, forcing them to re-evaluate their products and operations to comply with the strict regulations.
Australia: Easing the Burden for Medical Marijuana Patients
In a positive step for medical marijuana patients, Victoria, Australia has reformed its driving laws to allow magistrates greater sentencing discretion for drivers who test positive for THC, as long as they have a valid prescription for medical marijuana and are unimpaired while driving. Previously, any detectable THC resulted in a mandatory six-month license loss and fine, even for those who had legally obtained medical cannabis. This change reflects a growing recognition of the need for compassionate consideration for patients who rely on cannabis for medical reasons.
Looking Forward
These developments underscore the ongoing evolution of cannabis regulations around the globe. As scientific understanding of cannabis continues to grow, and societal attitudes shift, it’s likely that we will see further adjustments to these regulations in the coming years, aiming to find a balance between individual liberties, public health concerns, and the potential benefits of cannabis for both medical and recreational use.
