European Hemp Association Urges EU to Raise THC Limits for Industrial Hemp

The European Industrial Hemp Association (EIHA) is advocating for the European Union to increase the allowable THC limits for industrial hemp from the current 0.2% to 0.3%. This call for change is rooted in the association's belief that the current THC threshold unnecessarily restricts the variety of hemp that can be cultivated, thereby hindering the industry's potential growth

Historically, the THC limit for industrial hemp was set at 0.5%, which was then lowered to 0.3% before being further reduced to 0.2% in 1999 by the EU. The EIHA argues that this reduction has not been justified by any evidence showing that the 0.3% threshold would facilitate the cultivation of psychoactive cannabis. This stance is supported by comparisons to countries like Switzerland, where a THC limit of 1% is permitted without resulting in psychotropic effects

The EIHA has formally requested that the European Parliament, the European Commission, and EU member states reconsider the 1999 decision and restore the 0.3% THC limit. The association emphasizes that such a change would enhance the competitiveness of European hemp farmers, especially when compared to their counterparts in the United States and China, where the higher limit is already in place

In contrast to the EU's stringent regulations, some regions have adopted more liberal approaches. For example, Italy allows a THC limit of 0.6% for hemp in the field, although products derived from hemp are capped at 0.2%. Meanwhile, Western Australia recently increased its THC limit to 1%, aiming to bolster its hemp industry

Looking ahead, the EIHA's proposal could significantly impact the European hemp market, fostering greater diversity in hemp strains and potentially boosting economic growth in the sector. The association's push for regulatory change highlights the ongoing global debate over hemp cultivation standards and their implications for agricultural and industrial development