Germany is experiencing a surge in its medical cannabis sector, with companies like Cantourage leading the charge in producing and distributing cannabis-based medicinal products. Philip Schetter, CEO of Cantourage, showcased the company’s secure facility in Bavaria, where robust safety measures protect significant quantities of cannabis sourced internationally from places like Jamaica, Uganda, and New Zealand.
Since legalizing medical cannabis in 2017, Germany has seen a dramatic increase in its use. In December 2024 alone, pharmacies issued over 1,000 percent more cannabis prescriptions compared to the previous March. The demand spike followed the former center-left government’s decision to streamline access to cannabis prescriptions, allowing patients to obtain it without being severely ill. The law also permits individuals to possess up to 25 grams for personal use and grow up to three plants at home.
Cantourage reported a remarkable revenue growth of 118 percent in 2024, totaling 51.4 million euros. This growth highlights the company’s role in facilitating producers’ entry into the European medical cannabis market by processing and distributing their products. Competitors such as Bedrocan from the Netherlands and Canada’s Aurora also participate in this expanding market.
Schetter emphasizes the importance of quality assurance in medical cannabis, noting that certified products provide clarity regarding their origin and active ingredients, contrasting with the risks associated with black market products. He stated, “If I went to the black market, the choice would be rather limited and I would be given anything, without knowing what it contains.”
Cantourage markets its products creatively, using strain names like “Frosted Cookies” and “Chemdawg” to attract customers. This approach stands in contrast to traditional pharmaceutical marketing methods, reflecting a more youthful and innovative branding strategy.
Despite the positive growth in the industry, not all political figures are supportive of the cannabis legalization trend. Germany’s conservative Chancellor Friedrich Merz has expressed a desire to reverse recent legal changes, labeling them a “shame for the country.” His coalition government has adopted a more cautious stance, opting for an evaluation of the legalization policies rather than an outright repeal.
Schetter remains optimistic about the future, suggesting that even if regulations tighten, Cantourage’s pharmaceutical model would remain viable. He hopes that the review process could lead to further advancements in cannabis legalization. As Germany’s cannabis industry continues to evolve, it stands as a pivotal example of how shifting regulations can influence market dynamics and patient access to treatment.
English 
Spanish 
German 
Czech