As of April 7, 2025, coffee shops in Dutch municipalities participating in the cannabis experiment may only sell regulated cannabis. This is what the responsible ministers, Minister Van Weel (J&V) and State Secretary Karremans (VWS) informed. This date is final, so that there is a clear perspective for municipalities, coffee shop owners and growers.
One year of regulated sales
On December 15, 2023, the sale of regulated weed and hash started in coffee shops in Tilburg and Breda. Since June 17 of this year, all coffee shops in all 10 participating municipalities have been allowed to sell regulated products, in addition to the tolerated products, to consumers. After almost a year of regulated supply, 70 of the total 75 participating coffee shops have sold regulated weed and hash.
Experimental phase
The next phase of the experiment is the experimental phase. This phase will start on April 7, 2025. From then on, coffee shops in the 10 participating municipalities will only be allowed to sell regulated products. In principle, this phase will last 4 years. With a final date in sight, there is clarity for growers when they can start full production. This will allow the supply of regulated cannabis and hash to be further aligned with the demand of coffee shop owners. Moreover, by April, the 5th, 6th and 7th growers are also expected to be ready to deliver. This will improve both the choice of coffee shops and also the durability of supply.
Research
The 'Closed coffeeshop chain experiment' aims to investigate whether a regulated chain of production, distribution and sale of cannabis is possible. A team of researchers under the guidance of an independent Guidance and Evaluation Committee will also investigate the effects of this on public health, crime, security and nuisance. The results of this research can contribute to decision-making on future cannabis policy in the Netherlands.
Source: Rijksoverheid (Dutch)