Switzerland to embark on decade-long economic, social study of adult-use cannabis

Switzerland has proposed a pilot project to study the economic and health impacts of nonmedical cannabis use, but any change in the country’s laws to create a sustainable adult-use cannabis industry could be years away.

According to an amendment of Switzerland’s Narcotics Act currently before the country’s Parliament, the pilot project would allow up to 5,000 people to use a variety of recreational cannabis products.

The objective of the study is to gather scientific knowledge on the use of nonmedical cannabis, including socioeconomic aspects such as employment, family, public safety and the illicit market for drugs.

The legal basis for the scientific study, if it is approved by Parliament, will be valid for up to 10 years.

The project would consider a range of products, including cannabis flower, resin, oil and edibles, with THC content limited to a maximum of 20%.

The pilot lays out strict packaging requirements, mandating childproofing and health warnings. Advertising would be prohibited.

It also:

  • Prohibits the transmission of cannabis products to third parties.
  • Limits the amount of cannabis-based products a trial participant can acquire to no more than they can consume in one month.
  • Suggests pharmacies and cannabis social clubs as potential points of sale.

Detailed information on the proposed pilot project can be found here (in French).