Albanian Government approves regulations for medical cannabis cultivation
The Albanian government has approved stringent criteria and rules for the cultivation of Cannabis sativa for medical purposes. The new regulations, signed by Prime Minister Edi Rama, were formalized during a Council of Ministers meeting, and include measures for licensing, security, and transport.
Why is this important: The regulatory framework marks a significant step in Albania’s efforts to establish a legal and tightly controlled medical cannabis industry. The goal is to attract investment while ensuring compliance with international standards for cultivation, security, and monitoring.
Key details: The cultivation of medical cannabis is permitted in specific environments, such as open fields, protected areas, greenhouses, and isolated indoor facilities with artificial lighting. These facilities must adhere to rigorous security standards, including 24/7 surveillance with high-resolution CCTV cameras, infrared sensors, and physical security personnel.
Licensed entities are required to implement security measures such as reinforced concrete walls, electronic monitoring systems, and controlled entry points. All activities, including the movement of raw materials and cannabis products, must be closely monitored and reported to authorities. Transport vehicles must be sealed, equipped with GPS, and accompanied by security services.
- Licensing and compliance: Applicants for cannabis cultivation licenses must meet strict criteria and sign agreements with the relevant ministry. License holders are obligated to conduct regular inspections of their facilities and ensure the functionality of security equipment. In the event of a security system failure, repairs must be made within 24 hours.
- Monitoring and enforcement: The National Agency for Cannabis Control will oversee compliance and have access to live camera feeds from cultivation sites. Licensed entities must notify authorities at least five days before transporting cannabis or related materials. Customs procedures for import and export will be coordinated with state agencies to ensure transparency.
What’s next: The implementation of these regulations will involve multiple ministries, including the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Agriculture, and the National Cannabis Control Agency. The government aims to attract investment in the medical cannabis sector while maintaining strict oversight to prevent misuse.
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