What a ride it’s been! 2024 was like a rollercoaster with loops that had us feeling like we might fly off the track. Unpredictable twists and challenges collided with big moments of enlightenment. We stumbled, got back up, cheered, and kept going. The cards were shuffled, and we played our hand. The German hemp and cannabis industry was turned upside down, making 2024 a year of optimism, growth, and a lot of “learning by doing” moments. Looking back, one thing is clear: THANK YOU! Your support is our daily motivation and inspiration, driving us to continuously improve the standards of CBD products and unlock the full potential of the green miracle that is cannabis.
CANNABIS DECRIMINALIZATION: THE MOST CONTROVERSIAL LAW OF 2024
When we look back at 2024, there’s one topic we can’t avoid. Among the whirlwind of global events, Germany made its move: Cannabis legalization. But alongside the excitement, the flip side of the coin has also made its presence felt. Not everything that glitters is green, after all. Since April 1st, cannabis has been “partially legalized” in Germany with the Cannabis Control Act (KCanG), marking a long-awaited step toward a greener future. However, the political discussions about changes to the new law haven’t stopped, and we’re already seeing the consequences of many regulations that seem out of touch with reality. The legality people imagined hasn’t quite materialized – cannabis is still only available with a prescription unless you grow it yourself (max 3 plants per household). So, who’s the clear winner? Medical cannabis, of course.
But change is coming. The KCanG also introduced Cannabis Social Clubs (CSCs), which became legal as of July 1st. These clubs are designed to give members legal access to cannabis, but the slow licensing process is still a major hurdle.
IS THERE A CANNABIS SOCIAL CLUB IN BERLIN? TOM HEMP’S CANNABIS SOCIAL CLUB IS WAITING FOR A LICENSE
The big question: Is there a Cannabis Social Club in Berlin? Well, Tom Hemp’s Cannabis Social Club is ready to roll! We’ve found a location, and the application has been submitted to the Berlin State Office for Health and Social Affairs, which is in charge of licensing. So, we’re one step closer to making the dream of communal cannabis cultivation a reality, and you can even register as a member now: Join Tom Hemp’s Cannabis Club.
However, the ongoing slow pace of licensing remains a major issue. So far, only 15 licenses have been granted across four states, despite nearly 400 applications, showing just how much interest there is in the creation of cannabis clubs.
THE SLOW BURN OF SYNTHETIC CANNABINOIDS: A DANGEROUS TREND
In 2024, Germany took a significant step towards curbing the use of synthetic cannabinoids like HHC, THCP, and others. With the fifth amendment to the New Psychoactive Substances Act, these questionable substances were finally banned. Sold as “pure” alternatives to CBD, these cannabinoids are actually present in such small quantities in the hemp plant that they can only be commercially produced synthetically. While there’s a long history of research into THC, CBD oils, and CBD flowers, synthetic cannabinoids like HHC have little to no scientific backing. They trigger a psychoactive effect by interacting with the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the brain, unlike CBD, which influences the endocannabinoid system without causing a high. The lack of research on long-term effects makes users essentially “test subjects” for these substances, which is why their ban was long overdue.
It’s frustrating, however, that while synthetic products like HHC and THC derivatives are gaining popularity, natural hemp products like CBD continue to face barriers. The commercial cannabis industry may be riding high on big pharma and aggressive marketing strategies, but smaller players in the cannabis community, including hemp farmers and CBD companies, are still bogged down by bureaucracy and restrictive regulations.
THE HEMP LIBERALIZATION ACT: A MUCH-NEEDED STEP FORWARD
The good news? In September, the German Federal Ministry for Food and Agriculture (BMEL) released a draft for the Hemp Liberalization Act, which promises to change the outdated laws surrounding hemp cultivation and use. The current regulations, which treat low-THC hemp (non-psychoactive varieties) as a controlled substance, have been in need of reform for years. The new law would not only provide a legal basis for CBD products but also create significant economic opportunities for the hemp industry in Germany. Given that the European CBD market is expected to hit €3.44 billion by 2026, this shift could provide a huge economic boost.
While political challenges could delay the implementation of the Hemp Liberalization Act, a recent court ruling gives us hope. In early December, the Freiburg District Court ruled that the sale of hemp flowers with less than 0.1% THC is not considered illegal, as it is impossible to use these products for recreational purposes. This ruling further strengthens the position of the hemp industry and provides greater legal clarity, which is essential for the continued growth of the CBD sector.
SUPAFREAK, DREAM QUEEN, HEADBAND COOKIES: BUY CANNABIS SEEDS ONLINE
As we move into 2025, we’re not just focused on improving CBD oils and flowers – we’re also expanding our offerings to help YOU grow your own cannabis. Our Online Shop now offers a selection of premium cannabis seeds, clones, and the best Growing Equipment available. Whether you’re a seasoned grower or just starting, we’ve got everything you need – from feminized and auto-flowering seeds to Grow Boxes and Grow Lamps. And as we like to take the extra paddle, our Bike delivers with same-day delivery in Berlinmon orders placed by 4 PM. We’re here to make your Grow Experience as smooth as possible.
And what’s more important than happy customers? The growing CBD and cannabis industry is evolving, and we’re grateful to be part of it. Cannabis is finally getting the attention it deserves as one of the world’s oldest and most valuable plants. But the real stars of the show are YOU – our customers, partners, friends, and employees. Your support keeps us moving forward, and we can’t wait to continue this journey with you.
THANK YOU FOR PAINTING 2024 IN OUR FAVOURITE COLOUR
As we close the chapter on 2024 and look ahead to 2025, we just want to say: THANK YOU! To our customers, franchisees, partners, friends, and employees – your trust and loyalty mean the world to us. Together, we’ll continue to push for fair regulations, grow the industry, and improve the quality of life through cannabis. Here’s to an even greener, more successful 2025. We wish you all the best as we head into the new year. May 2025 be the rockstar of years and the greenest plant in your grow tent!
Tom Hemp’s Family
Together towards a better green tomorrow.
