The CBD (cannabidiol) market is experiencing a spectacular boom in Europe. Wellness products, food supplements, cosmetics and even sublingual oils: CBD is everywhere. However, its legality varies from one country to another, which can pose numerous challenges for consumers and businesses alike. Here is a comprehensive overview of CBD legislation in Europe.
???? What is CBD?
CBD is a cannabinoid naturally present in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), it does not have any psychotropic effect. It is mainly used for its relaxing, anti-inflammatory and anxiolytic effects.
⚖️ The European Framework
✅ CBD is not a narcotic
In 2020, the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJUE) ruled that CBD legally produced in one member state cannot be banned in another. CBD is not considered a drug, as long as it comes from authorised industrial hemp and contains less than 0.2 % THC (a rate sometimes raised to 0.3 % since the new European hemp regulation).
CBD is authorised in finished products
CBD products may be marketed if the molecule is extracted from the whole plant (flowers, leaves, stems and seeds), and not synthesised.
???? Country-by-Country Reporting (2025)
France CBD allowed. Products with less than 0,3 % THC. Flowers are tolerated but sometimes subject to restrictions.
Germany Legal CBD, THC < 0,2 %. Opening up towards the legalisation of recreational cannabis.
Belgium Vague regulatory framework. Oils are tolerated, flowers are banned. Products are often sold as «not intended for consumption».
Switzerland Although outside the EU, it allows up to 1 % THC. Flexible legislation.
Italy Legal CBD, THC < 0.3 %. The framework is sometimes interpreted differently depending on the region.
Spain Authorisation for cosmetic or topical products. Ingestible products subject to restrictions.
Netherlands CBD tolerated, CBD-based food products regulated.
Austria CBD authorised in cosmetics. Food supplements prohibited.
Portugal CBD authorised, especially for medical use.
Central and Eastern Europe (Poland, Czech Republic, Slovenia...): Relatively flexible regulations for CBD products with < 0,2 % THC.
Food and supplements: the «novel food» puzzle»
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) considers CBD to be a «novel food». This means that any ingestible product containing CBD (capsules, drinks, edible oils) must obtain prior authorisation before it can be marketed.
In 2025, very few companies obtained this authorisation. Most products remain on the market thanks to a certain amount of tolerance or by circumventing the wording.
CBD cosmetics
CBD is listed in the European Union's CosIng database, which permits its use in cosmetics (creams, balms, serums, etc.), provided that it is extracted from industrial hemp.
What remains prohibited
- THC remains prohibited in almost all European countries, except for strict medical use.
- Products containing synthetic CBD are generally not permitted.
- All communication for therapeutic purposes is prohibited without official authorisation.
Conclusion: a market under construction
In 2025, legislation surrounding CBD in Europe continues to evolve constantly. While the general trend is towards liberalisation and standardisation, each country still imposes its own rules, which requires vigilance and compliance for brands and distributors.
Advice for entrepreneurs Before selling CBD in a European country, it is essential to:
- Check local regulations (THC, type of products permitted, legal notices)
- Choose certified suppliers
- Working with a specialist solicitor or consultant