The cannabis in France has a long history of prohibition, dating back to Napoleon's return from Egypt. The legal restrictions on cannabis do not prevent its consumption on French territory, which since Europe's leading cannabis-smoking country. Newsweed covers all the latest developments on the decriminalization or legalization of cannabis in France, as well as the associations campaigning for a change in the law and the positions taken by French politicians on the subject. We also take a detailed look at what the cannabis law in France, and any future developments, such as the legality of CBD.
Illegal
Cannabis is illegal in France
Cannabis is illegal in France, where a strict prohibition policy is in place.
France is currently in a prolonged pilot phase for medical cannabis, with full implementation not yet in effect. The pilot program has been extended through March 2026, and full implementation is expected in 2027.
CBD is legal in France, but its status is complex and subject to strict conditions, particularly regarding food products and THC levels. CBD flowers have a more stable legal status, while other products such as oils and dietary supplements are subject to strict controls and varying interpretations of European regulations.
Cannabis is illegal in France, with strict laws and penalties such as fines for use.
Cannabis is illegal in France, including personal cultivation.
Last checked: September 23, 2026
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Although France is often cited as the biggest consumer of cannabis in Europe, particularly for recreational use, it remains an exception on the continent. No French government has committed to decriminalizing or legalizing cannabis.
In 2020, the Macronist majority re-penalized simple cannabis use, introducing a lump-sum fine, while Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin will then continue to pursue a repressive approach. In early 2024, he announced his intention to target both the supply and demand for cannabis, and proposed extending saliva testing on public roads.
The therapeutic use of cannabis has been legal in France since 2013, but this legalization is limited. Only Sativex, a drug used to treat multiple sclerosis, was approved for marketing in 2014, but it is still not available in France due to unresolved issues between its manufacturer and the government. Marinol has been available on an individual exemption basis since the early 2000s. This restrictive situation, often criticized by associations and certain health professionals, contrasts with the relaxation of cannabis legislation adopted in Europe since the early 2000s.
Cannabis was made illegal in France in 1970 with the adoption of the law of December 31, 1970. This law prohibited the production, sale and consumption of cannabis, as well as other drugs, and provided for severe penalties in the event of infringement. Initially intended for health purposes, frequent amendments to the law have removed this aspect in favor of a purely repressive approach.
At present, there is no definitive timetable for the legalization of cannabis in France. The French government has not announced any plans to legalize recreational cannabis, and the current policies pursued by Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin remain repressive.
The legalization of the therapeutic use of cannabis is limited, as the expansion of therapeutic cannabis now planned for 2026 does not include access to cannabis flowers, only to oils and extracts.
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