Cansativa Expert Dialogue: Antonia Menzel (BPC) on the Role of Lobbying in the Cannabis Industry

The BPC unites numerous companies throughout the medical cannabis supply chain. How do you develop common positions?  

The Federal Association of Pharmaceutical Cannabinoid Companies represents companies involved in the cultivation, processing, distribution, and research of cannabis. Naturally, different interests converge in this process. While there is much overlap, it is the association’s task to professionally moderate the dialogue between members and maintain the focus on our common goal: ensuring the quality supply of medicinal cannabis in Germany. Transparency, commitment, and a shared vision are the keys to developing strong, professional, and politically viable positions together. 

How can you legitimately represent interests in such a sensitive area as cannabis or medical cannabis? 

At our association, we represent interests in the field of medical cannabis by communicating responsibly, objectively, and in a solution-oriented manner. As an association, we navigate the tension between health policy, social debate, and economic development. Our central task is to distinguish the medical benefits of cannabis from its recreational use and highlight where legal hurdles are hindering an adequate supply. We engage in dialogue with political decision-makers, experts, and authorities, offering realistic, well-founded proposals rather than maximalist demands. To be taken seriously, one must be credible, transparent, and technically sound.  

What are the industry’s biggest challenges currently, and what is needed to further advance medical cannabis in Germany? 

The biggest challenge remains access to medical treatment with cannabis. Many patients still encounter obstacles when trying to obtain prescriptions and have the costs covered by health insurance companies. Additionally, there is growing uncertainty regarding prescriptions issued via telemedicine, despite their potential to bridge significant care gaps, particularly for chronically ill and mobility-impaired individuals. Therefore, Germany needs a modern, patient-oriented healthcare system; comprehensive education and training in the medical field; and a political framework that promotes investment in quality, research, and security of supply. The BPC is actively contributing to the political debate with concrete proposals. Medical cannabis is no longer a niche topic but an integral part of modern, evidence-based healthcare. 

Thank you very much for the interview!  

Changes are to be expected with the start of this new legislative period. In this context, the work of the BPC is particularly important to advance patients’ interests. Thank you, Antonia Menzel, for the interesting conversation, and best wishes to the association for continued success! 

Upcoming BPC events: 

• Educational webinars: July 9, 2025, on “The Start and Course of Cannabis Therapy” and “Cannabis Medicines: From Theory to Practice” 

Registration: https://bpc-deutschland.de/fortbildungs-webinare/ 

• BPC Symposium 2025 “Cannabinoids in Medicine” for physicians and pharmacists on November 8, 2025, in Düsseldorf – save the date! 

Click here to view the association’s position papers. 

Anything else?

Do you have specific questions or suggestions for the Cannabis Briefing? Then send us an email to briefing@www.cansativa.de. If you are interested in revolutionising the cannabis industry with us, then stay tuned and follow our briefings!

We wish you a good read!

Best wishes from both of us,