Europe Radar – Quick Country Check: Who’s Leading, Who’s Catching Up?
In May 2025, Denmark permanently anchored its previous pilot program into law. Although this is positive news, criticism remains regarding difficult reimbursement processes for patients. i
France extended its medical cannabis pilot study until the end of July 2025 and is now working on a comprehensive regulatory framework that could significantly ease patient access.ii Meanwhile, Italy has surprisingly banned all CBD and cannabis-light products, sparking protests. iii
In the United Kingdom, reimbursement for medical cannabis remains challenging. However, the country is currently supporting cannabis product research, opening up new perspectives for medical applications.iv The Czech Republic has permitted medical cannabis prescriptions for several years, but recent news concerns a new law passed by the government aimed at decriminalizing recreational use, set to come into effect in 2026. v
Further European Markets in Focus
There are exciting developments elsewhere in Europe too: Greece is evolving into a significant exporter and has already shipped 49 kg of medical cannabis to Germany in the first quarter of 2025. Additionally, after a seven-year wait, Greece has now started issuing its first legal prescriptions for medical cannabis products, significantly improving patient access as well as boosting local production and investment. vi Albania has recently given the green light for medical cannabis cultivation in 138 villages, significantly expanding its domestic cannabis industry and signaling new economic opportunities. vii In North Macedonia, all licenses are currently under review following revelations of illicit activities. viii
Ukraine, having legalized medical cannabis in August 2024, has now approved its first imports of medical cannabis products, which are expected soon to be available for patients with severe conditions like PTSD and chronic pain. ix
Germany as a Pioneer and Its Potential
Germany remains the undisputed leader in the European medical cannabis sector. With clear regulatory structures, high-quality standards, and a rapidly growing patient base, Germany serves as a model for many countries. Its clear and stable legislative framework continues to make Germany the most significant target market and driving force for innovative cannabis companies and investors in Europe. The ongoing developments remain exciting and could position Germany as Europe’s cannabis hub in the long term.
[i]https://businessofcannabis.com/denmark-legalises-medical-cannabis-permanently-but-ludicrous-subsidy-gap-remains/
[ii]https://www.rfi.fr/en/france/20241222-france-extends-medical-cannabis-trial-to-help-patients-find-alternatives
[iii]https://www.reuters.com/world/italy-cracks-down-protests-squatters-cannabis-2025-06-04/
[iv]https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/may/10/cannabis-medical-research-bill
[v] https://www.senat.cz/xqw/xervlet/pssenat/hlasy?G=23215&O=15
[vi]https://cannabishealthnews.co.uk/2024/02/28/greece-welcomes-new-era-of-medical-cannabis-after-seven-year-wait/
[vii]https://cannareporter.eu/en/2025/07/07/North-Macedonia-government-to-review-company-licenses-after-seizing-cannabis-destined-for-the-illicit-market/
[viii]https://balkaneu.com/albania-greenlights-medical-cannabis-cultivation-in-138-villages/
[ix]https://cannabishealthnews.co.uk/2025/06/19/ukraine-approves-first-medical-cannabis-imports/