The cbd market - Spain

1.1 Definition and presentation

CBD, also known as cannabidiol, is a molecule found in hemp or other cannabis strains that contain more THC. At 0.2% THC, hemp stays within the permitted THC limits and is therefore the only plant authorized to produce CBD in the European Union. Beyond flowers and resin, once the molecule is extracted from the plant, several products can be produced: food, cosmetics, beverages, but also CBD oil.

Globally, the CBD market has grown exponentially in recent years. Although recreational cannabis consumption is not tolerated in many European countries, the Court of Justice of the European Union ruled in November 2020 that CBD consumption was not prohibited in Europe, saying that CBD consumption had "no adverse health effects" and could not be banned by member states.

The CBD market in Europe is growing rapidly and the main hemp producing countries, which are the Netherlands, Lithuania, Romania and France, account for almost 50% of the total produced in Europe, although hemp is mainly used as a fiber (fabric) and as a building material.

In Spain the recreational use of cannabis is tolerated, it is possible to grow cannabis for personal consumption, although trade and public consumption are still prohibited. CBD has attracted new consumers and many companies such as La Tía María, Serenity or Laboratorios Naturasor successfully market CBD-based products.