Confusion reigns in France, under a hostile and muddled government

Regulation of cannabidiol (CBD) in France remains unclear, with a variety of potential rulings leading to confusion and French companies being discouraged from entering a new and beleaguered market.

French enforcement actions have, so far, been uneven. Whereas some shop owners have had no trouble, others have been taken into custody, searched, had their shops sealed, and even been convicted in court.

The government has taken a hostile stand, with health minister Agnès Buzyn saying recently that she intends to close all CBD shops within months.

It is unclear whether the government intends to follow through on that threat. However, searches and enforcement actions have been increasing with local reports saying methods have evolved to include things such as sealing orders requiring a decision from the public prosecutor’s office before shops can reopen.