Germany’s medical cannabis market continues its rapid expansion. This follows the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM) announcement of a significant increase to the country’s cannabis import ceiling, reports krautinvest. The new limit of approximately 192.5 tons represents a substantial jump from the previous cap of 122 tons. This highlights the growing demand for medical cannabis products across the nation.
This decision comes after Germany reached its original import limit in mid-September. This forced BfArM to temporarily halt new import approvals. The regulatory pause created uncertainty in the market until the agency resumed processing cannabis import applications in late October with the newly expanded quota.
Strong Growth Drives Import Expansion
The dramatic increase in Germany’s import capacity reflects the remarkable growth trajectory of the country’s medical cannabis sector. Import volumes have more than doubled in recent years. They rose from 32.5 tons in 2023 to approximately 71.1 tons in 2024. This upward trend accelerated further in 2025, with Germany importing over 43 tons in the second quarter alone.
The surge in imports coincides with Germany’s evolving cannabis legislation. After removing cannabis from the Narcotics Act and passing the Medical Cannabis Act in 2024, the country has witnessed unprecedented growth in patient access and prescription volumes.
Today, more than one in seven German pharmacies dispenses medical cannabis products. This highlights the widespread adoption of cannabis as a therapeutic option.
Canada Dominates Supply Chain
Canadian producers continue to lead Germany’s medical cannabis supply chain. They account for nearly half of all imports, reports the Marijuana Herald.
In the second quarter of 2025, Canada supplied over 20 tons of medical cannabis to Germany. This marks a significant increase from previous quarters. Portugal serves as the second-largest supplier. It often acts as an intermediary for Canadian exports to the European market.
Three companies currently hold cultivation licenses within Germany itself: Canadian firms Tilray and Aurora, alongside German-based Demecan. Tilray’s Aphria RX became the first company to receive a cultivation license under Germany’s new Cannabis Act in July 2025. This represents a step toward greater domestic production capacity.
Government Seeks to Tighten Access
Despite the market’s growth, Germany’s current government is moving to restrict medical cannabis access. This is through proposed amendments to the Medical Cannabis Act.
The Federal Ministry of Health has pointed to the sharp increase in imports. This, combined with relatively modest growth in insurance-covered prescriptions, serves as justification for tighter regulations.
The proposed changes would eliminate telemedicine consultations for cannabis prescriptions, requiring in-person visits with healthcare providers.
Additionally, the amendments would prohibit mail-order delivery of cannabis products, though pharmacy delivery services would remain available. Follow-up prescriptions would require face-to-face consultations every four quarters.
Cannabis advocacy groups have strongly opposed these restrictions. The German Hemp Association (DHV) launched a nationwide email campaign targeting lawmakers. They argue that the proposed changes would create barriers for vulnerable patients who depend on accessible medical cannabis care.
Market Outlook Remains Positive
Despite regulatory headwinds, Germany’s position as Europe’s largest medical cannabis market appears secure. The country’s streamlined prescription process and extensive pharmacy network have created a foundation for continued growth, even as policymakers debate access restrictions.
The 58% increase in import capacity to 192.5 tons signals confidence in sustained market demand. Industry observers expect Germany to remain the primary destination for international cannabis exports. This is particularly true from established producers in Canada and other regulated markets.
As Germany navigates the balance between expanding patient access and regulatory oversight, the medical cannabis sector continues demonstrating its resilience and growth potential in Europe’s most populous nation.
