Washington D.C.’s medical cannabis market saw a notable increase in sales during March 2025, with monthly revenues surpassing $3.1 million for the first time since June 2023. This surge follows Maryland’s launch of its adult-use cannabis market, which previously impacted D.C. sales.
The Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA) reported that the rise in sales is a positive development for a market challenged by illegal dispensaries and competition from Maryland’s adult-use market. In March 2025, the number of operational medical dispensaries increased to 24, a modest rise of seven from February. However, these dispensaries catered to a rapidly growing patient base, which expanded by over 5,000 individuals in March. This figure is nearly double the number of patients served in March 2024, indicating a significant shift in market dynamics.
Additionally, the March sales data does not include the immediate effects of the March 31 deadline for unlicensed shops to close, which led to a rush of new dispensaries opening in April. As a result, the number of medical dispensaries in D.C. almost reached 40, broadening access to new patients.
D.C. officials recently announced the closure of the 50th unlicensed store, although some of these establishments have reopened. Manufacturers also reported record sales, with $1.4 million worth of products sold, marking the highest monthly total since separate tracking began in October 2023.
Key figures from March include: – An increase of 3,137 temporary non-resident patients. – Anticipation of 2,094 patient expirations in the upcoming months of April, May, and June. – The addition of 13 new dispensaries that became operational in April. – A rise of over $350,000 in sales from temporary self-certification patients. – A slight decline in cultivation sales of just over $75,000 from February to March. – Overall, Q2 2025 sales remain $1.5 million lower than the same quarter in 2024. – A total of 36 inspections were scheduled, leading to the closure of 10 unlicensed facilities.
The D.C. medical cannabis market appears to be rebounding, driven by both the increasing patient count and the adjustments in the operational landscape. As new dispensaries emerge and patient numbers continue to rise, the market is poised for further growth in the coming months.
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