New York still tops $1 billion in legal cannabis sales

According to figures presented this week by’Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) and the Cannabis Control Board (CCB), the state topped the billion-dollar mark in sales in 2025, and now records 2.09 billion in sales since the opening of first dispensaries by the end of 2022.

A fast-growing market driven by equity objectives

Despite strong sales, regulators continue to fine-tune the system.

At its last meeting in Albany, the CCB approved 46 new adult-use licenses, bringing the statewide total to 1 904. Of these, 57% are held by operators Social and Economic Equity (SEE), or contractors affected by the war on drugs.

«Our work goes far beyond licensing and regulation, it's about shaping a cannabis industry that truly reflects New York's values,» said Jessica García, CWB president, at the session.

The State currently has 464 approved dispensaries, These include processors, growers, distributors, micro-businesses and CAURD (Conditional Adult-Use Retail Dispensary) licensees. In order to clarify the licensing process for companies, provisional licenses have been extended until December 31, 2026, including those granted between September and the end of this year.

Support for smallholders and social equity

Equity remains a central pillar of New York's cannabis regulatory framework.

«The CMO also ensures that SEE licensees have the resources and support services they need to ensure their longevity in the marketplace,» explained L. Simone Washington, director of equity at OCM.

This year, regulators awarded 159 dispensaries as part of the CAURD subsidy program, offering up to 30,000 dollars to help cover start-up and operating costs such as rent, renovations and security. In addition, the state has set up support mechanisms including a loan fund, a loan loss reserve, free legal services in partnership with CUNY Law and SUNY, and access to financial planning tools for micro-businesses.

Officials say that the long-term survival of SEE licensees is not just a political objective, but also an indicator of success for the market as a whole.

In parallel with market development, CCB launched the Cannabis Education Advisory Panel (CEAP) to guide awareness and education initiatives focused on young people.

«Information is power, and education is the engine of progress,» he stressed. Felicia A.B. Reid, Acting Executive Director of the CMO.

This initiative complements wider public information campaigns, including guides to safe consumer practices, digital advertising and community engagement projects aimed at building confidence in the regulated market.