One year of cannabis law: MV with three cultivation associations on target?

One year of cannabis law: MV with three cultivation associations on target?

A year has passed since the law legalizing cannabis cultivation in Germany brought a breath of fresh air. In Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, the operators of cultivation associations can look forward to initial successes. Currently, three of these organizations have been approved in the region - two in Greifswald and one in Rostock, like n-tv reported. So far, 13 applications have been received by the State Office for Agriculture, Food Safety and Fisheries (LALLF) and demand appears to be unbroken.

Undoubtedly an exciting topic! The first harvest steps of the newly founded cultures should be highlighted. Marc Thalus, founder of “Sochill Green”, draws a positive conclusion from the first year. His growing association, which saw the light of day in August 2024, boasts 242 members. Previously there were 70, and an additional 200 interested people are on the waiting list. This shows the great interest in legal cannabis cultivation! His first harvest included 700 plants, although the quantity was not quite as high as hoped.

The challenges of the early days

However, the early days were not a walk in the park. Jessica Schwandt from LALLF confirms that there were some hurdles to overcome due to unclear regulations and the new nature of the law. Thalus reports that due to legal requirements they also had to look for a new location that is at least 200 meters away from kindergartens.

Another exciting aspect is the implementation of the financial framework conditions. The Consumer Cannabis Act (KCanG), which came into force on April 1, 2024, also affected cultivation associations. They were able to start cultivation from July 1, 2024. Minister Dr. Backhaus emphasizes that the costs incurred should not be borne by the general public. The fees for cultivation method applications are between 500 and 3,500 euros, depending on the administrative effort. A new organizational unit in the LALLF ensures the monitoring and implementation of the campaign.

Preparing for legalization

The partial legalization of cannabis in Germany, which raises many questions, is also reflected in the safety of handling cannabis. Since April 2024, people aged 18 and over have been allowed to possess up to 50 grams of cannabis at home and carry a maximum of 25 grams with them. Personal use is permitted, while passing on and selling is still prohibited. However, strict rules must be observed for the cultivation clubs in order to prevent misuse: minimum distances from schools and kindergartens, no advertising and a ban on consumption within the clubs.

The regulatory authorities in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania are preparing for legalization, and the judiciary also has its hands full - around 6,500 cases for cannabis offenses have to be opened. The German cultivation company DAG is already planning a big step into the future with a cannabis cultivation center in Murchin near Anklam. Whether this is really what the region needs is still an open question.

In summary, the topic of cannabis in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania is a huge trend that is relevant not only for the operators of the cultivation associations, but also for the entire region. An insightful look into the new legal environment that has now found its way here in the north. Stay tuned - the developments surrounding the topic of cannabis are certainly far from over and we will continue to report! You can also find more information on government mv and north courier.