A pair of researchers in Germany recently examined usage data for cannabis, alcohol, and tobacco to try to determine if consumption levels for alcohol and tobacco have fluctuated in Germany after cannabis legalization. Similar ongoing research efforts are occurring in Canada. The German researchers’ findings were recently published in the journal Nordic Studies on Alcohol and Drugs.
“Based on the data and considerations presented by Fischer et al. (2026a), we want to discuss the implications for evaluating the partial legalization of cannabis for Germany – a country with high consumption levels of alcohol and tobacco.” the researchers wrote.
Starting in April 2024, adults in Germany can cultivate, possess, and consume personal amounts of cannabis. Additionally, starting in July 2024, adults can join one of Germany’s adult-use cannabis cultivation associations (sometimes referred to as ‘social clubs’). So far, authorities have approved roughly 500 cannabis cultivation associations in Germany.
“Between 2010 and 2022, the amount of pure alcohol consumed on average by each adult aged 15 years or older, has decreased from 12.2 to 11.3 L. This 7% reduction of 0.9 L was accelerated in the following years and reached an all-time low in 2024 with 10.5 L (Manthey and Kilian, 2026). Preliminary, unpublished data suggest a further decline in 2025.” the researchers wrote.
“To investigate the possible impact of legalization on alcohol use and attributable health problems, we plan to consider and triangulate three data sources: survey data, alcohol per capita consumption (APC), and hospitalization data.” the researchers found. “Taken together, these aggregate figures do not suggest that cannabis legalization has led to an increase in alcohol use. If at all, alcohol use and health problems have declined following the reform.”
The researchers who led the analysis are Dr. Jakob Manthey and Professor Dr. Daniel Kotz, leaders of the Evaluation of the Consumer Cannabis Act (EKOCAN) project, which is a very prominent effort that domestic lawmakers are following as they continue to consider potential updates to German cannabis public policy. The researchers plan to publish their final evaluation report in April 2028.
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Cannabis Law Resources in Poland
Explore essential legal pages about cannabis cultivation, sales, and medical product regulations in Poland. These resources will guide you through permissions, certifications, and compliance requirements.
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Polish News Registration and Interests of Cannabis Businesses
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Permissions for Cannabis Sales in Poland
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Authorization for Importing or Manufacturing Medical Products
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Permission for Manufacturing or Importing Medical Products
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Certificate of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
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Registration of Medical Products in Poland