Czech government proposes stricter regulations for kratom and CBD

The Czech government is preparing legislative changes to tighten the regulation of kratom and other psychoactive substances. Following a government meeting, Interior Minister Lubomír Metnar announced that a working group has prepared 16 legislative proposals aimed at closing loopholes used by sellers to bypass current laws.

Proposed measures include banning the enrichment of technical hemp with synthetic substances, restricting the production of strong extracts, and prohibiting the processing of CBD into other psychoactive substances. The government also aims to implement a group system for psychoactive substances and a rapid response mechanism to prevent manufacturers from circumventing bans by making minor chemical modifications.

The Ministry of Health has suggested increasing the age limit for purchasing kratom from 18 to 21 and banning distance sales, such as through e-shops. These moves come amid rising addiction rates, particularly among young men aged 18–30. While officials seek to limit accessibility and prevent tourists from being hospitalized, some experts warn that a total ban could drive the market underground, leading to unregulated and potentially more dangerous substances.