European Parliament Approves THC Level Increase for Industrial Hemp to 0.3%

The European Parliament has approved an increase in the THC level for industrial hemp crops, from 0.2% to 0.3%. This change is part of the new Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) reforms, set to take effect in 2023. Under these reforms, European farmers may qualify for EU subsidies when using hemp varieties registered in the EU catalog with a maximum THC level of 0.3%.

The European Industrial Hemp Association (EIHA) played a significant role in achieving this milestone, advocating for the interests of European hemp farmers. Lorenza Romanese, Managing Director of EIHA, expressed satisfaction with this progress, emphasizing the EU's growing recognition of a legitimate European hemp sector.

The increased THC limit carries substantial implications for the European hemp market. Currently, the EU hemp seed catalog lists around 69 hemp varieties. With the new 0.3% THC limit, European farmers will have access to over 500 hemp varieties, offering the potential for diversified crops, improved fibers, CBD flowers, and stalks. This change also enables cultivation in various soil and climate conditions, fostering genetic diversity.

However, compared to non-European markets, the 0.3% THC limit remains relatively low. Countries like Switzerland and Australia permit hemp varieties with a THC level of 1%, while the Czech Republic sets a 1% limit within the EU, and Italy at 0.6%.

This THC level is crucial for CBD production, as it affects the quality of industrial hemp crops. A limited THC level may not yield optimal CBD products.

In recent years, hemp cultivation in Europe has increased significantly, with a 75% rise in dedicated hemp-growing areas from 2015 to 2019. Production also surged by 62.4% during the same period.

France leads as the largest EU hemp producer, followed by the Netherlands and Austria. The new CAP recognizes the economic and environmental value of hemp, regulating it through marketing standards that encompass technical definitions, labeling, packaging, production methods, and farming infrastructure, ensuring high-quality products.

The EU acknowledges hemp's strategic properties, which contribute to the goals of the European Green Deal, such as carbon storage, soil erosion prevention, and support for biodiversity through pollen production. While the EU is making progress in recognizing hemp's potential, the 0.3% THC limit remains modest compared to other global standards.

This story was originally published by The Forbes here.