The legality of CBD in France
Yes, it is legal to buy and consume CBD products in France, as long as the THC content does not exceed 0.3%. At CBD.fr, we ensure that all products sold on our site comply with French legislation.
French legislation on CBD
In France, legislation concerning the marketing of CBD is based primarily on two criteria:
- Product origin
- The THC content of the product
Where it comes from: industrial hemp
CBD products sold in France must come from industrial hemp, a variety of cannabis authorized for cultivation in the European Union. This type of hemp has a low THC content and can be used to produce textiles, stationery, cosmetics and food.
THC levels: a legal threshold to be respected
French legislation stipulates that products containing CBD must not contain more than 0.3% THC. This strict rule applies to all products, whether CBD oils, capsules, creams or flowers for smoking. As long as this threshold is respected, the product is legal to market and consume.
The vagaries of European legislation
Although the marketing of CBD is authorized in France, European legislation is less clear, and court rulings can sometimes cast doubt.
The Kanavape case: a CJEU decision in favour of CBD
In 2020, the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) handed down an important decision concerning the marketing of CBD. In the Kanavape case, the Court ruled that France's restriction on the import of CBD extracted from hemp leaves and flowers was contrary to European law, which guarantees the free movement of goods.
This decision has been hailed as a major breakthrough for the legalization of CBD in the EU, as it establishes that products based on this molecule cannot be considered narcotics if they meet European standards for THC levels.
Harmonizing European legislation: an ongoing process
Despite this decision, national legislation on CBD remains heterogeneous within the European Union. Some countries allow the sale of products containing up to 1% THC, while others prohibit their sale altogether. This situation makes it difficult to buy CBD online, and highlights the need for harmonized rules at European level.
Buying CBD in France: what precautions should you take?
While the purchase of CBD is legal in France, it is nevertheless important to take certain precautions to ensure product quality and conformity:
- Check the product's origin: it must come from industrial hemp grown in the European Union.
- Find out about THC levels: they must not exceed 0.3%.
- Choose specialist stores and reliable websites: those that provide clear, transparent information on the composition of their products.
- Avoid offers that are too tempting or prices that are too low: they may conceal products of poor quality or that do not comply with French regulations.
By following these recommendations, you can legally enjoy the benefits of CBD in France. Don't hesitate to consult a health professional if you're considering using this molecule for therapeutic purposes.