Can I buy CBD products legally in France

As in many other European countries, the laws on CBD in France can seem complicated. But one thing is certain; France is one of the best places to buy CBD products legally.

We will decipher for you the legal status of CBD in France and cover everything you need to know before buying CBD oil, whether in-store or online.

Is CBD legal in France?

CBD is NOT considered a narcotic in the eyes of the government and is therefore legal, but certain restrictions must be respected.

In 2018, the French government clarified its position on CBD products. Hemp is allowed to be grown in France, but it must be one of the government-approved strains and only the stems and fibres can be used. The use of the flowers in any way is strictly forbidden.

CBD is only legal to sell, use and possess in France if it contains 0,2% THC. If the product contains THC, it can be considered a narcotic by the authorities.

Furthermore, the marketing of CBD products is limited and can in no way promote the use of cannabis.

How and where to buy CBD products in France ?

You can find many online suppliers who ship both CBD products and premium CBD oil in France. However, some of these companies are international entities - so they may not strictly follow the regulations in force by the French government. Therefore, it is important that you take some steps to ensure that you are in compliance with the law. Make sure that the brand can provide test results from an independent laboratory. These tests should tell you whether the product contains potentially harmful elements such as heavy metals, pesticides or solvents.

Hemp and marijuana: what's the difference?

Both plants are of the same species, known as Cannabis sativa.

Both hemp and marijuana are rich in CBD, but produce other cannabinoids in different quantities, such as THC, CBN, CBG, etc. All this depends on the DNA of the plant.

France has been growing industrial hemp for hundreds of years. In 1850, France produced more than 175,000 hectares of hemp - this number fell to 700 hectares in 1960. More recently, France has increased its hemp production and now produces 40% of European production.

The law separates hemp and marijuana according to the amount of THC present in the plant (THC is the psychoactive compound).

According to the French authorities, hemp is any Cannabis sativa with a THC content of less than 0.2%. Unlike marijuana, hemp cannot make the user high.

To remember :

• CBD products that do not contain THC are legal in France.

• Hemp cultivation is legal as long as it has a THC content of less than 0.2%.  

• France produces up to 40% of European hemp and is only the third largest producer in the world after China and Canada.

• You should have no trouble buying quality CBD products in France.

The information and products presented on this site are not intended for medical use. Always seek the advice of a doctor if you have any questions about a health problem.