Global medical cannabis markets expand amid regulatory shifts

The global medical cannabis market is experiencing significant growth and regulatory shifts. In Germany, the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices updated its Q1 2026 medical cannabis import data to a record 67,569 tons, a 33% increase attributed to delayed reporting by importing companies. Canada remains the primary supplier to Germany, accounting for 26,753 tonnes, followed by Portugal with 10,342 tonnes. Notably, Portuguese medicinal cannabis exports have risen by 762% over the last three years.

In the United States, legislative and legal developments continue to shape the industry. California Governor Gavin Newsom signed bills requiring marijuana retailers to provide laboratory results to customers and strengthening regulatory access for independent testing. A separate measure will exclude qualifying cannabinol (CBN) isolate from the state’s cannabis-concentrate definition starting in 2028. At the federal level, the Cannabis Users’ Restoration of Eligibility (CURE) Act has gained a second cosponsor, aiming to prevent past marijuana use from disqualifying individuals from federal employment or security clearances. Additionally, the U.S. Supreme Court is considering whether to hear a Michigan case regarding the lack of a numerical THC impairment threshold for driving offenses.