In the last year, 22.6 million adults in Europe used cannabis. France has one of the highest rates of use in the region. Yet, France’s cannabis laws are among the strictest in Europe.
Is Cannabis Legal in France? Legal Status in 2025
No, cannabis is not fully legal in France, but the country has made some allowances for medical cannabis and CBD products. Recreational cannabis use is still illegal in France.
The country has strict penalties for possession, trafficking, and cultivation. CBD products from hemp with under 0.3% THC are legal. Medical cannabis is being tested under strict rules. Let’s check each in detail:
1. Recreational Use
Recreational cannabis is illegal in France. Possession can lead to fines of €200 for up to 100 grams, reduced to €150 if paid quickly. Public consumption or selling cannabis risks 10–20 years in prison and fines of up to €7.5 million. France has strict laws, but many people use cannabis. 54% of citizens support legalization.
2. Medicinal Use
Medical cannabis is not fully legalized but is available through a pilot program extended to July 2025. This program allows 3,200 patients with conditions like cancer and epilepsy to use cannabis oils or vaporized flowers. New patients can’t enroll. The future of medical access is uncertain because of political delays.
3. Industrial Use
Industrial hemp (with <0.3% THC) is legal for products like textiles and CBD oils. France is a leading hemp producer in Europe. But, raw hemp flowers had legal issues before they were allowed in 2022.
Cannabis Law in France and Control
1. How France Appies Cannabis Laws
Police prioritize large-scale trafficking over personal use. First-time offenders with small amounts usually get fines. Repeat offenders, however, face tougher penalties. Authorities also crack down on illegal grow operations, which carry up to 20-year sentences.
2. The Illegal Cannabis Market
France’s black market thrives due to high demand and limited legal access. The country’s illegal cannabis trade is tied to organized crime. The EU reported about 566,000 cannabis-related offenses. Patients in the expired medical program may return to illegal sources, worsening the issue.
Cannabis Usage and Its Impact in France
1. Recreational Drug Use
About 11% of French adults have tried cannabis, with young people (18–25) being the largest users. Despite the risks, many view it as safer than alcohol.
2. Mental Health Concerns
Heavy cannabis use is linked to anxiety and psychosis, especially in teens. France’s government emphasizes public health campaigns to address these risks.
3. Industrial Cannabis Use
France’s hemp industry generates €200 million annually, supporting jobs in farming and CBD retail. Products like hempcrete (eco-friendly concrete) showcase its versatility.
Cannabis Cultivation in France
Growing cannabis is illegal for personal or medical use. However, farmers can cultivate industrial hemp with government permits. France imports medical cannabis for its pilot program, as local production is banned.
Cannabis Penalties in France
| Offense | Penalties |
| Personal Use | €200 fine (reduced to €150 if paid within 15 days). |
| Trafficking | 10–20 years in prison and fines up to €7.5 million. |
| Growing | Up to 20 years in prison and €7.5 million in fines for growing cannabis. |
Future of Cannabis Legalization in France
France might grow its medical cannabis program by 2025. However, recreational legalization seems unlikely.
Health Minister Yannick Neuder supports medical research but opposes adult-use laws. Political instability and EU drug treaties further complicate reforms. But, public pressure and successful pilot results could push gradual changes.
France’s cannabis laws balance strict control with cautious medical progress. While CBD thrives and medical access inches forward, recreational users face risks.
