Tilray authorized to distribute medical cannabis flowers in Italy

The Medical Cannabis Company Tilray received the very first government authorization in Italy to distribute medical cannabis flowers at pharmacies across the country. 

A first in Italy's medical cannabis landscape

Italy has legalized the medical marijuana in 2013, initially relying on imports to meet patients’ needs. In an effort to develop a domestic supply, the Italian government tasked the military pharmaceutical plant in Florence to grow cannabis. The The results have been consistently criticized by patients and advocates, who have criticized the poor quality and inconsistent availability of the flowers produced.

In this context, the authorization granted to Tilray to distribute pharmaceutical-grade cannabis products represents a significant change. For the first time, Italian patients will have access to certified cannabis flowers EU-GMP from a private international producer.

«This important milestone highlights the essential role of medical cannabis as a therapeutic medication for patients who need it, promoting their health and well-being,» said Denise Faltischek, Chief Strategy Officer and Head of International Operations at Tilray Brands, in a press release.

Three products ready for nationwide distribution

From June 2025, three products Tilray Medical will be distributed in Italian pharmacies:

• Tilray THC 25 %
• Tilray THC 18 %
• Tilray THC 9 % / CBD 9 %

The introduction of these varieties will give Italian patients access to a wider range of cannabinoid-based treatments, offering formulations with higher THC content as well as balanced THC/CBD options.

According to Tilray, the decision by the Italian Ministry of Health reflects institutions’ growing recognition of the cannabis flower as a legitimate and effective therapeutic option. It also underscores the confidence placed in Tilray’s ability to deliver standardized and compliant products in strictly regulated environments.

«We would like to express our gratitude to the Ministry of Health »for its confidence in Tilray Medical and for establishing the regulatory framework necessary to ensure access to safe, consistent, and reliable cannabinoid-based treatments," said Mr. Faltischek.

Tilray Expands Its Presence in Europe

The authorization granted in Italy is in addition to the Tilray's rapidly expanding European portfolio. The company already has a presence in Germany, in Portugal, in Poland and in the United Kingdom, a country where the medical marijuana is widely available or is on its way to becoming more widely accepted.

By obtaining this authorization, Tilray is not only entering a new market but also strengthening its strategy to become a leading provider of cannabis-based healthcare solutions in Europe. The company views this development as a crucial step in preparing for potential future reforms, particularly the legalization of recreational cannabis in certain jurisdictions.

«This achievement underscores Tilray’s commitment to advancing healthcare solutions through regulated medical cannabis and to providing standardized, pharmaceutical-grade options to meet patients» diverse needs,” said a source.

The Italian Market: Challenges and Opportunities

Italy’s path toward a functional regulatory framework for medical cannabis has been uneven. Despite legalization in 2013, access remains uneven, with significant regional disparities and frequent product shortages reported by both patients and pharmacists.

Criticism has often focused on the agriculture managed by the military, which has been unable to meet demand, both in terms of volume and quality. In this context, the arrival of a company like Tilray, which brings internationally certified flowers and well-established distribution channels could help reduce long-standing bottlenecks.

However, challenges remain. The Italian system for prescribing cannabis is largely doctor-centered, and many general practitioners still lack adequate training or do not feel confident enough to prescribe cannabinoid-based treatments. Reimbursement policies also vary by region, which limits patient access in certain areas.