The legalization of light cannabis in Italy was an important step that opened up new opportunities in the agricultural sector and sparked significant discussions.
Seven years ago, the Italian Parliament approved a law to promote the agro-industrial chain of hemp, allowing the so-called light cannabis to enter the market. This legislation establishes precise conditions for the legal cultivation of hemp, including the THC content limits and the purpose of using the product.
The legal growing
Light cannabis concerns only the hemp varieties listed in the common catalog of agricultural plants of the European Union. To be legal, plants must meet certain criteria:
Use only certified seeds from authorized dealers, keeping the relative invoices for at least 12 months. Ensure the THC content is less than 0.6%. If hemp exceeds this limit, the hemp can be seized or destroyed, but the farmer will not be held liable if he proves that he has used certified seeds. Growing hemp for legal purposes, such as horticulture or other activities specified in the law. Respecting these conditions, the cultivation of light cannabis is legal in Italy, according to the law of 2 December 2016.
The fine line between personal use and dealing of high THC cannabis
When it comes to high-THC cannabis, it’s important to distinguish between personal use and dealing. Authorities evaluate several factors to determine whether it is personal use or a crime, such as the number of plants, the absence of peddling tools and the intention of the farmer.
If the plants are intended for personal use and there is no evidence of dealing, it does not constitute a criminal offence. However, the cultivation of illegal cannabis for personal use is still considered an administrative offense and can lead to sanctions such as the suspension of the licence, firearms licence, passport and residence permit for tourism.
Therapeutic use of cannabis in Italy: a legal and controlled path
Since 2007, the therapeutic use of cannabis has been legal in Italy, but it is permitted only through drugs specifically packaged and prescribed by a doctor. The unauthorized purchase and use of cannabis for medicinal purposes is not justifiable.
The legality of domestic cultivation of cannabis for therapeutic purposes has also been affirmed by the Court of Cassation. If no elements of drug dealing emerge in the activity, it is considered as personal use.
Tax incentives and financing for the cultivation of legal sativa hemp
Law 242 provides incentives of up to 700,000 euros per year for the development of legal cannabis in Italy, improving the production and marketing of the product.
Legal cannabis producers can benefit from tax exemptions for three years and reductions of 65% and 50% in the following years. Additionally, some regional directives may offer additional funding for the cultivation of legal sativa hemp. Sativa hemp is also registered as an innovative agricultural crop, allowing for additional tax benefits and funding for farms.
Growing legal marijuana in Italy: simple guide
The cultivation of legal hemp in Italy requires some attention, but it is a versatile crop that adapts to different conditions. It is important to follow a few rules:
- Use only certified seeds from authorized dealers.
- Ensure the THC content is less than 0.6%.
- Grow only for legal purposes such as nursery gardening or flower production.
Sativa hemp does not require special care and is a self-herbicide plant. Its cultivation can offer environmental benefits, contributing to sustainable development.
The legalization of light cannabis in Italy has opened up new opportunities in the agricultural sector and has sparked significant debates. The legal cultivation of hemp is permitted under the precise conditions established by the 2016 law. Understanding the difference between personal use and dealing of high THC cannabis is crucial. The therapeutic use of cannabis is legal and controlled through specific drugs prescribed by a doctor. The cultivation of legal cannabis can benefit from tax incentives and financing, promoting the economic development of the sector.
Warning: This article is informational only. We advise you to avoid the home cultivation of legal hemp, especially if you are new to the sector, as the risk of making mistakes and unintentionally breaking the law is always present.
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