Malta now allows Cannabis Clubs to possess up to 3.5kg of cannabis

Malta has updated its regulatory framework on cannabis, the quantity of product that the Maltese Cannabis Clubs can stock. The changes, introduced by a new legal notice last week, adjust stock limits according to the number of registered members in each association.

Until now, all associations were limited to 500 grams of dried cannabis in stock, regardless of size. The new rules replace this general limit with a tiered system tailored to larger clubs struggling to keep up with demand.

Under the new framework, associations with more than 350 members can now store up to 3.5 kg of cannabis in their distribution center. Those with between 250 and 350 members can store up to 2.45 kg, while clubs with between 110 and 250 members can store 1.75 kg.

Smaller organizations are subject to stricter limits. Associations with fewer than 100 members are limited to 700 grams, and those with fewer than 50 members can only store 350 grams on site.

These changes, relayed by Times of Malta, The move follows reports that many Maltese associations were operating at full capacity and were often out of stock. By aligning stock thresholds with the size of associations, regulators appear to be easing the constraints on the system without changing the general legal framework governing personal use.

No change in possession or purchase limits

The amendments do not alter the rules governing the quantity of cannabis that individuals can transport, buy or store at home.

Since the Maltese cannabis legislation to be reformed by the end of 2021, Adults are allowed to carry up to 7 grams without criminal prosecution. Possession of between 7 and 28 grams results in a court appearance rather than criminal prosecution.

Registered members of an association may purchase up to 7 grams per 24-hour period, subject to a monthly limit of 50 grams. Private individuals are also authorized to store up to 50 grams of dried cannabis at home.

On cultivation sites, associations can store the equivalent of eight months' supply, calculated at 50 grams per member. This provision remains unchanged under the new amendments.

Tougher enforcement and higher fines

While stock limits have been raised for larger clubs, the government has simultaneously strengthened the enforcement provisions and increased potential penalties.

Fines ranging from 2,000 to 10,000 euros are imposed on associations holding more cannabis than the authorized quantity in their distribution center. Infringements committed on cultivation sites carry much higher risks, with penalties of up to 50,000 euros.

The amendments also extend the maximum penalties. Previously, the maximum administrative penalty that could be imposed on a cannabis association was 10,000 euros. This limit has now been raised to 50,000 euros, i.e. up to twice the revenue generated by the offence.

In addition, new fines apply to those who transport cannabis on behalf of an association without written authorization from the Authority for the Responsible Use of Cannabis (ARUC), the body responsible for overseeing Malta's regulated system.

The updated framework also introduces clearer due diligence requirements and stricter internal record-keeping rules, reflecting an effort to professionalize operations in this sector.