Switzerland tightens control on synthetic cannabinoids

Switzerland amplifies regulations on synthetic cannabinoids

Amidst the ongoing discussions and debates surrounding cannabis regulation in Switzerland, the government has taken a decisive step to control synthetic cannabinoids.

The Swiss Federal Department of Home Affairs (EDI) has listed a group of synthetic cannabinoids and several individual substances, including HHCP, delta-9-THCP, delta-8-THCP, and H4CBD, under the Narcotics Directory Ordinance (BetmVV-EDI). This move, effective from October 9, 2023, aims to combat the misuse of these new synthetic substances as narcotics.

Addressing the challenges of synthetic substances

The decision to regulate these substances comes amidst a backdrop of challenges posed by synthetic and semi-synthetic cannabinoids. The EDI has consistently listed such substances since 2011, highlighting an ongoing struggle to effectively address related health risks and black-market activities.

Read more: What is HHC (hexahydrocannabinol)?

The Swiss Agency for Therapeutic Products, Swissmedic, has been actively involved in identifying and proposing substances for control to safeguard public health.

Implications for health and safety

The regulation of synthetic cannabinoids is pivotal in ensuring the health and safety of the public. Unlike naturally occurring cannabinoids found in the hemp plant, such as CBD, CBC, and CBG, synthetic versions can pose significant health risks.

The control of these substances is not only crucial for preventing misuse but also for ensuring that consumers are not exposed to potentially hazardous substances often found in synthetic drugs.

IG Hanf Schweiz advocates for comprehensive cannabis regulation

IG Hanf Schweiz, a prominent player in the Swiss hemp industry, has welcomed the listing of the aforementioned substances. The organization perceives this move as a vital step towards protecting the health of citizens and creating more legal certainty for traders in Switzerland. However, the recurring listing of synthetic cannabinoids by the EDI underscores a persistent issue that has not been effectively resolved since 2011.

Striving for effective health protection

IG Hanf Schweiz emphasizes that effective health protection can only be ensured within a regulated market for hemp and hemp products. A sensible cannabis regulation forms the basis for youth and consumer protection, quality assurance, combating the black market, and the sustainable development of the Swiss hemp industry.

The path forward: Cannabis regulation and public health

The Swiss government’s stance on synthetic cannabinoids and the broader context of cannabis regulation is a multifaceted issue. While the control of synthetic substances is a move towards safeguarding public health, it also brings to light the broader issues related to the cannabis market in Switzerland.

The prohibition of cannabis, compared to legal drugs, is not based on current scientific arguments, especially considering that the harmfulness of tobacco and alcohol is not less significant.

Ensuring a regulated market

Only a regulated market can meet the requirements of Swiss addiction policy, ensuring that possible tax revenues also flow into prevention and youth protection. A meaningful legal regulation will be able to address these widely known problems, ensuring that the control of the existing market does not remain in the hands of illegal actors, thereby leading to a range of negative effects.

Our opinion

The Swiss government's move to regulate synthetic cannabinoids is a step towards ensuring public health and safety. However, it also brings to light the broader, unresolved issues surrounding the regulation of the cannabis market in Switzerland.

As discussions continue, the need for comprehensive, sensible cannabis regulation that ensures consumer and youth protection, quality assurance, and the sustainable development of the Swiss hemp industry becomes ever more apparent.

For a deeper understanding of the legal and health implications of synthetic cannabinoids and the ongoing discussions around cannabis regulation in Switzerland, explore the official documentation from the Swiss Federal Department of Home Affairs.