A significant decline in cannabis-related offenses has been observed in Germany following the partial legalization of the substance. This finding emerges from an interim report of the EKOCAN project, which is assessing the impacts of the Consumption Cannabis Act (KCanG). Police crime statistics for 2024 indicate approximately 100,000 fewer criminal proceedings compared to the previous year. Individuals engaging in small-scale personal consumption have particularly benefited from the legislative change, as possession of limited quantities for private use is now legal.
The evaluation suggests that the number of cannabis consumers has remained relatively stable. An estimated 5.3 million adults consumed cannabis in 2024. Medical cannabis accounted for roughly 12 to 14 percent of total demand, while cannabis growing associations produced less than 0.1 percent. Jakob Manthey, who coordinates the project, notes that the long-term implications for public health are not yet fully discernible. He highlights the limited number of growing associations as a potential challenge and advocates for simpler procedures for their approval and operation.
Daniel Kotz, leading the project in Düsseldorf, stated that the decreasing trend in adolescent cannabis consumption has continued even after the partial legalization. However, approximately one-tenth of young consumers exhibit patterns of use that represent a risk, potentially increasing the likelihood of health problems. A final report for the EKOCAN project is scheduled for release in April 2028.
