The CBD market in France has undergone a significant evolution in recent years, moving from unclear regulations to a more structured legal framework. In 2025, where does CBD legalization stand in France? What's at stake and what are the prospects for consumers and industry professionals?
The current legal framework for CBD in France
The regulation of CBD in France has long been marked by uncertainty. However, several decisions have helped to clarify the situation:
Authorized THC levels: Since 2025, the legal THC threshold in finished products has been set at 0,3 %compared with 0.2% previously.
Supervision of CBD stores: Specialized stores must comply with strict standards in terms of signage, labeling and customer advice.
Advertising and communication: Any mention of CBD as a medicine is prohibited without scientific validation.
These developments provide consumers with access to better-controlled products, and companies with a more stable framework for their activities.
Europe's influence on French regulations
France does not legislate alone on CBD. Decisions taken at European level directly influence national regulations:
Recognition of CBD as a "novel food": This classification facilitates its use in foods and oils.
Towards a European CBD label: A certification project could be launched to guarantee product quality and safety.
Experimentation with recreational cannabis in Germany and Spain: These initiatives are influencing the perception of CBD in France and could accelerate legislative change.
CBD product quality control: an essential issue
Consumer protection is based on rigorous controls throughout the CBD product production chain, from hemp cultivation to marketing.
Standards to be met
To guarantee their quality, CBD products must meet several requirements:
Purity and composition: They must be free from contaminants such as pesticides, heavy metals or solvent residues.
Extraction techniques: the processes used, such as CO₂ extraction, must be validated according to strict international standards.
Laboratory analysis: Each production batch is regularly tested to ensure compliance in terms of safety and quality.
Challenges for Consumers and Professionals
The gradual legalization of CBD in France brings several advantages:
✅ For consumers: Access to better quality products, fewer legal risks when purchasing.
✅ For stores and producers: A more secure framework, encouraging investment and innovation.
✅ For the economy: The CBD market represents a considerable economic opportunity, with growing demand.
However, certain restrictions remain, notably on the sale of CBD flowers and e-liquids, which are still regulated by country.
European regulations: contrasting approaches
Legislation surrounding CBD differs considerably between European countries, giving rise to a heterogeneous regulatory framework. When comparing the situation in France with that in other states, several particularities stand out:
Germany: The country has implemented rather flexible regulations, authorizing the widespread marketing of CBD as long as THC thresholds are respected.
Spain: While hemp cultivation is encouraged, the sale of CBD products is strictly regulated to prevent misuse.
Italy: The Italian market is growing fast, with stringent quality requirements and a gradual evolution of laws, adjusted in line with feedback from the field.
Conclusion: A promising future for CBD in France
The legalization of CBD in France in 2025 marks a significant step towards better regulation of the market. With clearer standards and gradual harmonization with Europe, the CBD sector continues to grow, offering consumers and professionals a more secure and structured framework.
