Legislation in Slovenia on Hemp Cultivation

Konoplja_in_njena_pridelava_v_medicinske_namene.pdf (dz-rs.si)

In Slovenia, the cultivation and use of hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) are regulated under several pieces of legislation, reflecting both national laws and adherence to European Union regulations. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the key legislative aspects regarding hemp cultivation in Slovenia:

National Legislation

1. Production and Trade of Illicit Drugs Act :

• This act defines the legal framework for the control of substances classified as illicit drugs, including cannabis. However, it distinguishes between industrial hemp and other cannabis strains with higher THC content.

1. Agricultural Act :

• This act includes provisions for the cultivation of crops, including industrial hemp. It outlines the requirements for registration, cultivation, and subsidy eligibility for farmers.

1. Regulation on the Conditions for Growing Hemp and Poppy :

• This regulation specifies the conditions under which hemp can be legally cultivated. It sets the maximum allowable THC content in hemp plants at 0.2%, which aligns with EU standards.
• Farmers must obtain a permit for hemp cultivation and comply with specified conditions, including seed certification and reporting requirements.

1. Rules on the Inclusion of Plant Varieties in the National List of Varieties :

• This rule governs the inclusion of plant varieties in the national list, which is a prerequisite for legally cultivating hemp varieties in Slovenia.

European Union Regulations

Slovenia, as a member of the European Union, also adheres to EU regulations regarding hemp cultivation:

1. Common Agricultural Policy (CAP):

• Under the CAP, EU member states, including Slovenia, are allowed to grant subsidies for the cultivation of industrial hemp, provided it meets the EU-defined THC limits.

1. EU Regulation No. 1307/2013:

• This regulation lays down rules for direct payments to farmers under the CAP, including provisions for hemp cultivation. The regulation requires that the hemp cultivated for subsidy purposes must not exceed a THC content of 0.2%.

1. EU Regulation No. 639/2014:

• This regulation provides further details on the implementation of direct payments for farmers, including specific measures related to the cultivation of hemp.

Practical Aspects of Hemp Cultivation in Slovenia

1. Licensing and Permits:

• Farmers must obtain a permit from the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Food to cultivate hemp. This involves submitting an application that includes details about the cultivation area, seed source, and intended use of the crop.

1. Seed Certification:

• Only certified hemp seeds from the national list or the EU’s Common Catalogue of Varieties are permitted for cultivation.

1. THC Monitoring:

• Hemp crops are subject to THC content monitoring to ensure compliance with the legal limit of 0.2%. Exceeding this limit can result in the destruction of the crop and potential legal penalties.

As of my last update in January 2022, cannabis laws and regulations can vary significantly from country to country and even within regions of a country like Slovenia. Here are some general points about cannabis seeds in Slovenia:

1. Legal Status: Cannabis cultivation, including growing from seeds, is illegal in Slovenia without the proper licenses. Possession of cannabis seeds is generally legal for personal use, but only if they are not germinated or planted.
2. Seed Purchases: There are seed banks and stores, both physical and online, that sell cannabis seeds. However, it’s important to ensure any purchase complies with local laws and regulations.
3. Cultural Attitudes: Slovenia, like many countries, has a mix of attitudes towards cannabis. While personal use is generally tolerated to some extent, cultivation without a license remains illegal.
4. Legalization Efforts: There have been discussions and efforts in Slovenia regarding the legalization of cannabis for medical and possibly recreational use. These discussions may impact future legislation and regulations.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, especially regarding any recent changes in laws or regulations, it’s best to consult official government sources or legal experts familiar with Slovenian law.

Research and Development

• Slovenia encourages research and development in the field of hemp cultivation and processing, supporting initiatives that explore the agricultural, industrial, and medicinal uses of hemp.

In summary, the legislative framework for hemp cultivation in Slovenia is comprehensive, balancing the promotion of industrial hemp cultivation with stringent controls to prevent the misuse of cannabis. Compliance with both national laws and EU regulations is essential for farmers and businesses involved in the hemp industry.