German officials report high interest in domestic cultivation, with 79 applications submitted for the 13 contracts to be granted.
The first application process to select cultivators, which drew 118 applicants despite more stringent minimum requirements, had to be restarted due to legal challenges.
Until the first harvest occurs – expected in the last quarter of 2020 – all medical cannabis flower sold in Germany will be imported. Oil is also imported.
Imports will continue after in-country harvests begin, as the amount of product Germany is calling for remains well short of anticipated demand.
The total amount the agency will allow to be cultivated in Germany is 10,400 kilograms (22,900 pounds) – 2,600 kilograms per year for four years.
Future cannabis to be cultivated in Germany must fulfill Good Agricultural and Collection Practices.
The German cannabis agency will buy the agreed quantities, complying with the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs.
Demand for medical cannabis in Germany increased throughout the first three quarters of 2018 – the latest official information available – but growth slowed from Q2 to Q3.
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