What is the legality of CBD in Spain, Italy, India and other countries?

The legal situation of CBD products in different countries and regions can be complex and varies depending on local laws and regulations. Here is the most important information about selected countries and their handling of CBD:

European Union (EU): The EU has a common legal framework for CBD products that can be interpreted and implemented by member states. In principle, CBD, which is obtained from approved hemp varieties and has a maximum THC content of 0.2%, is legal in most EU countries. However, some countries such as Switzerland and Austria allow higher THC limits of up to 1%. Before traveling to EU countries, it is advisable to check the specific regulations of the destination country.

Germany: In Germany, CBD products are legal as long as they do not exceed the legal THC limit of 0.2%. This applies to both private use and commercial sales. However, it is important to note that CBD products with higher levels of THC are classified as narcotics and are therefore illegal.

France: In France, CBD products made from hemp are generally legal as long as they comply with the maximum THC limit of 0.2%. However, the use of CBD in food and as a dietary supplement is not permitted. Therefore, CBD products should only be taken for personal use and not for sale.

Italy: In Italy, CBD products are legal as long as they do not exceed the THC limit of 0.6%. The country has a progressive stance on CBD and allows the sale of products containing CBD, including food and dietary supplements. However, the use of CBD in cosmetics is not permitted in Italy.

Spain: In Spain, CBD products made from approved hemp varieties with a THC content of up to 0.2% are legal. The country has an active CBD industry and allows the sale and consumption of products containing CBD, including food, cosmetics and e-liquids.

CBD in Turkey: In Turkey the legal situation regarding CBD products is complicated. Although hemp is recognized as a commercial crop, CBD products are subject to strict restrictions. CBD oil derived from hemp is generally legal as long as the THC content does not exceed 0.2%. However, it is important to note that Turkish authorities have a strict stance against illegal drugs, which can lead to conflict if CBD products are deemed suspicious by authorities.

Situation in the USA: In the USA, the legal situation regarding CBD products is extremely complex, as different laws apply both at the federal level and in the individual states. At the federal level, the Farm Bill was passed in 2018, legalizing the cultivation and use of hemp with a maximum THC content of 0.3%. However, some states have enacted stricter regulations, and in certain cases, CBD products are banned entirely. Before importing or using CBD products into the US, you should check the specific laws of the state you are visiting to avoid legal issues.

CBD in Portugal: Portugal has a progressive attitude towards CBD. CBD products are legal as long as the THC limit of 0.2% is not exceeded. The country allows the sale and consumption of products containing CBD, including food and cosmetics. Additionally, Portugal has legalized the medical use of cannabis, which also includes the use of CBD products for medical purposes.

CBD in Greece: Greece has legalized the cultivation of hemp for industrial and medical purposes and allows the sale of products containing CBD, including food, cosmetics and dietary supplements. The country is creating a conducive environment for businesses and consumers and has recognized that the CBD industry offers potential for growth. CBD products are legal as long as they do not exceed the THC limit of 0.2%.

CBD in Sweden: Sweden has a restrictive stance on drugs, and CBD is considered a controlled substance. Nevertheless, CBD products that are made from hemp and do not exceed a THC content of 0.2% are generally legal. However, there is a risk that these products will be confiscated by the authorities. Personal possession of CBD products is usually permitted as long as they meet the legal THC limit.

Bosnia and Herzegovina:

• No clear laws that specifically allow or prohibit CBD.
• The legal situation of CBD in Bosnia and Herzegovina is unclear and may vary from canton to canton.
• It is recommended to exercise caution, especially when importing and purchasing CBD products.

Serbia: Strict regulation of possession, sale and consumption of drugs, including CBD.

• Cannabis and its derivatives, including CBD, are generally illegal.
• Fines and even prison sentences can be imposed, depending on the amount and the violation.
• Both the possession and sale of CBD are illegal, regardless of the products' origin.
• Online orders and deliveries to Serbia are also illegal.
• Discussions about possible legalization are unclear at the moment.

Albania:

• The general cultivation of cannabis is illegal in Albania.
• There are no specific laws for CBD, so a legal gray area exists.
• There is a risk that the importation of CBD products will be considered illegal.
• The laws regarding the medical use of CBD are also unclear.
• It is recommended to make prior inquiries to the authorities regarding the import and sale of CBD products and to observe legal certainty.

Greece:

• Selling and possessing CBD is legal as long as the products contain less than 0.2% THC.
• The products should come from hemp and not marijuana.
• Purchase can be recommended in pharmacies, health stores or specialized online stores.

Türkiye:

• Turkey has strict drug laws that typically prohibit the possession, sale and consumption of cannabis and its derivatives, including CBD.
• However, there is an exception for industrial hemp with a THC content of less than 0.2%.
• CBD products are often sold as “health products,” but the sale exists in a legal gray area.

Russia:

• Cannabis, including CBD, has been classified as an illegal substance since 1998.
• Enforcement regarding CBD is not uniform, but selling or possessing it can lead to legal issues.
• Importing CBD into Russia can lead to significant legal consequences.

Ukraine:

• The legal regulation of CBD in Ukraine is unclear as there are no specific laws or regulations directly related to it.
• The Ukrainian authorities have not yet expressed a clear position on the legality of CBD.
• It is recommended to be careful and seek legal advice if you wish to bring or purchase CBD to Ukraine.

China:

• CBD is illegal in China regardless of THC content.
• Although hemp production for export is permitted, domestic sales of CBD products are prohibited.
• Importing CBD into China is strictly prohibited and can result in significant penalties.

South Korea:

• Medical cannabis, including CBD, has been legalized since 2018 but is strictly regulated.
• Only CBD products approved by the South Korean Food and Drug Administration (KFDA) are legal.
• Violations of these rules can result in severe penalties.

North Korea:

• The legal situation regarding CBD in North Korea is unclear as there is no specific information about its legality.
• Travelers should exercise extreme caution and be aware that laws in North Korea can be arbitrary.

Vietnam:

• Cannabis is strictly prohibited in Vietnam, and there are no specific laws regarding CBD.
• Based on the general attitude towards cannabis, it can be assumed that CBD is illegal in Vietnam.
• Importing and purchasing CBD in Vietnam is high risk and not recommended.

Thailand:

• Medical cannabis was legalized in 2018, and patients with certain medical conditions can use CBD products with a doctor's prescription.
• The use of CBD is strictly regulated and only allows THC levels of 0.2% or less.
• CBD products may only be sold in licensed pharmacies.
• Importing CBD into Thailand without special approval from the FDA is illegal, and violations can result in severe penalties.

India:

• CBD falls under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (NDPS) of 1985 in India.
• The legal position of CBD in India is unclear as there are currently no specific laws or regulations governing its sale or consumption.
• Selling or consuming CBD products containing THC may be illegal as THC falls under the NDPS Act.

Nepal:

• Cannabis and its derivatives have been illegal in Nepal since 1973.
• CBD is considered in the context of cannabis laws, so it is illegal to possess, sell or consume.
• Violations can result in fines and jail time.