No cannabis exports for Macedonia

A recent draft law provided for changes to the current framework for regulating medical cannabis in Macedonia.

In addition to creating an independent regulatory authority, the project would have authorized the export of cannabis flowers, which is currently prohibited.

According to local newspapers, the bill was withdrawn after associations opposed the text, objecting to the government's role in granting licenses without external control, and because the proposed reforms would drive smaller players out of the market. The bill introduced a €500,000 bank guarantee.

On the other hand, the main opposition party criticized the bill, claiming that it would benefit cannabis producers owned by members of Prime Minister Zoran Zaev's family.

The bill has now been sent back to the Ministry of Health, where it is expected to be amended before resuming its legislative journey.

The Macedonia legalized medical cannabis in 2016. and opted for a rather liberal approach. Since 2017, 28 cultivation and oil production licenses have been granted and 15 companies are waiting to receive theirs. While little cannabis has so far been produced for the country, producers had hoped to be able to export to Germany and Poland. They will have to wait a little longer.