In a significant development for cannabis policy, the Slovenian Parliament has introduced a progressive measure to modernize its medical cannabis laws. This comes less than a year after 66.7% of voters supported a medical cannabis referendum during the 2024 European parliamentary elections. If passed, Slovenia could establish one of the most advanced medical cannabis frameworks in Europe.
The proposed legislation aims to overhaul current cannabis regulations, which, while allowing for medical use, have limited patient access and options. Advocates for cannabis reform in Slovenia have pushed for this change, and the bill is anticipated to gain approval later this year.
Key features of the new measure include:
1. **Legalization of Domestic Production**: The legislation would permit the commercial cultivation of medical cannabis within Slovenia. This aims to ensure consistent access to local products for patients and reduce reliance on imports.
2. **Home Cultivation**: Patients would have the right to grow their own medical cannabis, thereby increasing their access to treatments tailored to their needs.
3. **Regulated Distribution and Research**: The law would establish a regulated system for the distribution of cannabis products and facilitate scientific research into their benefits and applications.
4. **Non-restrictive Licensing**: The proposed licensing framework would allow both individuals and businesses that meet specific criteria to obtain licenses without a public tender process. This opens the market to a range of participants, enhancing competition and innovation.
5. **Quality Standards**: All medical cannabis sold in Slovenia must adhere to Good Agricultural and Collection Practice (GACP), Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), and European Pharmacopoeia standards, ensuring high quality and safety for patients.
An essential aspect of the bill is the removal of cannabis and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) from Slovenia’s prohibited drugs list. This reclassification is expected to eliminate previous barriers that hindered industry growth and scientific advancement, similar to changes seen in Germany, where the removal of cannabis from the Narcotics List led to rapid expansion in its medical cannabis sector.
The new law also proposes to simplify the prescription process for medical cannabis. Currently, patients must navigate complex narcotic prescription protocols, which limits the availability of products. The proposed changes would allow medical cannabis access through standard medical prescriptions, broadening the range of products available to patients.
In a unique aspect that sets Slovenia apart from many other countries, the legislation also includes provisions for the regulated use of medical cannabis for animals. Research suggests that animals can benefit from cannabis therapies, and this could position Slovenia as a leader in developing veterinary cannabis products.
The projected growth of Slovenia’s medical cannabis market is expected to reach over €55 million by 2029, with an annual growth rate of 4%. The new law is designed to foster job creation and innovation, enhancing Slovenia’s position as a hub for cannabis research and development in Europe.
Aligned with international drug conventions, Slovenia’s proposed legislation draws on successful frameworks from countries like Germany, the Netherlands, and Austria. If passed, it would mark a significant advancement in cannabis policy within Europe, contributing to both patient welfare and economic growth.
The introduction of this measure represents a pivotal moment for Slovenia, with the potential to serve as a model for other nations exploring cannabis reform. As the bill progresses, it reflects the changing landscape of cannabis legislation in Europe and the increasing recognition of its medical value.
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