Further postponement in the Netherlands: cannabis growers not ready for experimental phase

Since the start of the transition phase of the experimental chain of closed coffee shops on June 17, only three growers supplied their products to coffee shops in the ten participating municipalities.

Of the 75 participating coffee shops, 63 more or less sold regulated cannabis and hashish.

The transition phase was to prepare the transition to the experimental phase, where only regulated products can be sold.

Checks reveal shortcomings in terms of quantity and diversity

Checks carried out in recent months show that growers are not yet achieving the required quantity, diversity and quality of cannabis products. Secretary of State Karremans (Youth, Prevention and Sport) and Minister Van Weel (JenV) announced this today in an official letter. CannabisIndustrie.nl.

The experimental phase provided that growers were to supply a minimum of 570 kg of cannabis and 160 kg of hashish per week, with a stock of 6,800 kg of cannabis and 2,000 kg of hashish. To date, this target has not been met.

Production forecasts for March were not met, making the start-up date of September 16 impossible.

Delays in preparations for the fourth and fifth growers mean that it is unlikely that the required quantity and diversity will be achieved in time.

Coffeeshop owners and municipalities voice their concerns

Most coffee shop entrepreneurs are neutral or satisfied with the quality of cannabis products, but the hashish quality is not as good. The limited range offered by three growers also raises concerns about the diversity of the assortment.

The owners of the coffeeshops and the mayors of the participating municipalities expressed their concern about the current situation.

In view of the current shortcomings in terms of quantity, quality and diversity, the administration has decided to extend the transition phase to ensure that the cannabis experience does not begin with insufficient supply.

Production and availability of regulated products will be monitored again when the fourth and fifth growers are ready. Results should be available by mid-November.

The experimental phase will start at the earliest six weeks after the announcement of the new start date, to give all stakeholders sufficient time to prepare.

In addition, the nine-month commissioning requirement is linked to the designation of five growers who are not yet producing, the letter states. These growers must start cultivating within this period, or risk having their designation withdrawn.