Hemp shops in Austria pick up the pace with CBD flexibility

Amid the uncertainty that has taken over hemp shops in Austria in recent months, a new government decision has brought some relief to the sector. The temporary authorization for the sale of CBD flowers, valid until 2028, rekindles the routine of small traders who saw their businesses almost disappear after sudden legal changes and now resume work with some relief.

The Austrian government approved a partial amendment to the Tobacco Monopoly Act (Tabakmonopolgesetz) to allow specialized shops ('hanfshops') to resume the commercialization of cannabis flowers with less than 0.3% THC.

The measure establishes a transitional phase until the end of 2028, during which these shops will be able to operate with a specific license and meet quality control requirements, according to the Cañamo website.

The change comes after the sector collapsed in early 2025 when a judicial interpretation equated CBD flowers to tobacco products, restricting sales only to tobacco shops ('Trafiken'). The decision reduced specialized shops' revenue by up to 70%, affecting workers, producers, and distributors.

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Cannabis sector celebrates temporary relief

According to the Cáñamo website, the Österreichischer Cannabisbundesverband (ÖCB) association classified the extension as a 'temporary relief,' emphasizing that the sector still seeks clearer regulation aligned with the European context.

A report commissioned to jurist Heinz Mayer pointed out that the equivalence between non-psychoactive cannabis and tobacco would not be compatible with the European Union's principles of free trade, as CBD does not pose risks equivalent to nicotine.

Studies cited by the sector indicate that the legal hemp market in Austria generates around 500 million euros per year. However, the monopolistic model scheduled for after 2028 could reduce revenue and limit competitiveness, according to ÖCB estimates.

Other changes planned in legislation

The reform also affects other products classified as 'sensitive consumption,' such as e-cigarette liquids and nicotine pouches.

From 2029, these items will be sold exclusively in tobacco shops, consolidating the role of these establishments as the only access point for tobacco derivatives and similar products.
 

With information from Cañamo.Net