Federal Laws

Understanding federal laws is crucial for operating a cannabis business in Canada. This page provides an overview of key federal regulations governing the cannabis industry.

1. Cannabis Act

The Cannabis Act, enacted in 2018, regulates the production, distribution, sale, and possession of cannabis in Canada. The Act aims to keep cannabis out of the hands of youth, keep profits out of the pockets of criminals, and protect public health and safety by allowing adults access to legal cannabis.

2. Licensing Requirements

Businesses must obtain the appropriate licenses from Health Canada to legally produce and sell cannabis. The key licenses include:

• Cultivation License: Required for growing cannabis.
• Processing License: Required for producing cannabis products.
• Sales License: Required for selling cannabis products to consumers.

3. Packaging and Labeling

Federal regulations mandate specific requirements for cannabis packaging and labeling to ensure product safety and prevent accidental consumption by children. Labels must include:

• Product identity and net weight
• THC and CBD content
• Health warnings
• Producer information

4. Advertising and Promotion

Strict rules govern the advertising and promotion of cannabis products. These regulations aim to prevent the marketing of cannabis to youth and ensure that promotions are not misleading or deceptive.

5. Medical Cannabis

Separate provisions exist for the production and distribution of medical cannabis. Patients with a prescription from a healthcare provider can access medical cannabis through licensed producers.

Additional Resources

For more detailed information, visit the Health Canada website and review the full text of the Cannabis Act.