- Prohibition of HHC: a wave of shock in the world of cannabis shops but hope persists 🌿
- THE clients adapt, the shops innovate: the post-HHC era begins with optimism 🚀
- Despite the obstacles, alternatives like H4CBD are poking their heads up - the cannabis market is rebounding! 🌈
1. HHC: a molecule under close surveillance
Since 13 June 2023, thehexahydrocannabinol (HHC), a synthetic cannabis molecule, is forbidden for sale and consumption in France. This decision by the National Agency for the Safety of Medicines (Ansm) shook up the ecosystem of specialist shops and caused a mixed reaction among consumers.
Frédéric, an occasional user of HHC, expressed his dismay at the ban: "It's completely false, I can tell you 100%, there's nothing more to it than going to bed", he asserted, refuting the ANSM's argument about the risks of dependence and significant side-effects.
2. Retailers faced with the ban on HHC
The consequences of this ban are heavily felt in the shops. Mélissa, working in a store in the center of Paris, says: “It will push people to come back to what was even less good, like THC”. In other words, classic cannabis. Banning HHC will, she says, encourage clients to turn to potentially more dangerous products fortunately there are still brands such Okiweed selling THCV and H4CBD.
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The halt in sales of this popular molecule has also led to an influx of shoppers looking to stock up before the ban is fully enforced. Several traders report being overwhelmed by customers wanting to stock HHC.
3. How are stores coping with this new regulation?
The ban triggered a wave of sell-offs in shops looking to sell off their stocks of HHC before the law came into force. However, some retailers, such as Thomas*, manager of a shop from CBD in the Vaucluse, plan to continue selling the HHC under the cloak: “I'm not going to sit on 20,000 euros worth of goods. Otherwise I close my business.”
However, not all traders share this view. Cathy, manager of Tropical Zen in Avignon, has always refused to sell these "chemical products, completely doctored", which she accuses of making consumers dependent. She remains concerned all the same: “Afterwards, let’s not cry victory too quickly, because I am sure that the labs will quickly come out with new molecules.”
4. An uncertain future for the cannabis market
Despite the ban on HHC, other products are already ready to take over. Cannabis derivatives, such as H4CBD, are beginning to appear on the market. The question then arises: will this measure be enough to control consumption? of cannabis and its possible harmful effects on public health, or will it simply lead to an endless race against new molecules, at the risk of causing a rise in the black market? France, like many European countries, is at a crossroads when it comes to drug policy and this recent decision on HHC is a clear example.
5. The Cannabis Legalization Debate
The ban on HHC in France has revived the debate on the legalization of cannabis. While some argue that legalization could be a solution to control product quality and eliminate the black market, others argue that it could lead to increased consumption, especially among young people.
6. Possible consequences for consumers
For consumers, the ban on HHC may have several consequences. On the one hand, they may turn to other products, legal or illegal, to replace HHC. On the other hand, they may decide to stop using altogether, faced with the fear of consuming illegal or potentially harmful products.
In conclusion, the ban on HHC in France has a significant impact on consumers and traders, and raises many questions about the future of cannabis policy in France. Only the evolution of the situation in the months to come will make it possible to answer these questions.
Why is HHC banned?
HHC is banned in France because of the risk of dependence and significant side effects.
How are retailers reacting to the ban on HHC?
Some retailers are looking to sell off their stocks before the law comes into force, while others plan to continue selling HHC illegally.
What alternatives exist following the ban on HHC?
Cannabis derivatives, such as H4CBD, are beginning to appear on the market as alternatives to HHC.