The Dutch Tolerance Policy and What It Means for CBD Businesses
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Table of Contents
The Dutch Tolerance Policy and What It Means for CBD Businesses
Table of Contents
Summary
Introduction
Getting to Grips with Cannabidiol
The Dutch Tolerance Policy
What Does This Mean for CBD Businesses?
Always Pure Organics
Final Thoughts
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
References
Summary
With more and more CBD businesses coming to fruition, it’s essential to stay in the know about what you can and can’t do in specific regions worldwide. The Netherlands is one country that springs to mind when you think of a territory with a pro-cannabis reputation, but this is a myth. Citizens must abide by the Dutch tolerance policy. So, what is this, and what does it mean for CBD businesses? This article will give you all the information you need about operating a CBD business in the Netherlands.
Introduction
The Netherlands, often informally referred to as Holland, is well-known for its progressive stance on equality and diversity, bustling with people from all walks of life. It’s the second-most densely populated country in the European Union (EU) and the 16th in the world, with 17.5 million. Those native to the country are referred to as Dutch.
One of the biggest appeals for visiting the Netherlands is its seemingly laid-back and lenient attitude towards cannabis and cannabis products. The country’s most populous city and capital, Amsterdam, is famous for this, often attracting a wealth of tourists each year.
This relaxed approach in the Netherlands is enticing businesspeople to invest in CBD businesses in the area. CBD is on the up as one of the latest trends in the wellness and food industry. Promising scientific research reveals the compound’s range of potential therapeutic benefits, further advancing the industry.
Whether you want to build your own CBD business in the Netherlands or invest in one, Always Pure Organics can help. Our mission is to accelerate the global acceptance of and access to cannabinoids. We’re B2B and a white label manufacturer of the highest quality wholesale cannabis and cannabinoid products, including CBD. Our worldwide delivery means you can access bulk ingredients, bulk products, white label products or bespoke formulations across the globe.
We can provide you with regulatory and legal expertise, and our News page will keep you updated on everything you need to know about investing in CBD businesses. Before we dive into CBD regulations in the Netherlands, let’s take a closer look at the cannabinoid.
Getting to Grips with Cannabidiol
Cannabidiol (CBD) is an active ingredient extracted from the leaves and flowers of the Cannabis sativa plant, which includes roughly 120 different compounds. People may refer to this plant as hemp or marijuana, but there’s a distinction between these two terms—the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content. THC is well-known for its psychoactive properties, and higher THC concentrations are found in marijuana than hemp. Hemp plants have a relatively high CBD concentration and are low on THC.
CBD is a non-addictive compound that’s not responsible for a “high” or state of euphoria. Intriguingly, CBD might inhibit THC’s effects on the nervous system. It’s alleged that receptors in the body are activated by CBD, influencing the body to produce naturally-occurring cannabinoids.
The widespread desirability of CBD is thanks to its potentially powerful and nourishing properties. CBD may relieve physical discomforts or help people maintain holistic wellbeing. There’s a wide variety of CBD products on the market, including oils and tinctures, edibles, vaporisers and topical creams and lotions.
Even though there aren’t typically serious side effects or drug interactions, it’s imperative to be mindful of the potential risks when using CBD. Side effects could range from drowsiness or sedation to diarrhoea and loss of appetite, mood changes, liver injury and low blood pressure.
CBD may also interact with antibiotics, antidepressants, and blood thinners. Take extra precautions in these circumstances and when medications or supplements have a grapefruit warning. This is because both CBD and grapefruit are metabolised by the same enzymes vital for drug metabolism. Additionally, you should speak to your doctor before CBD use, who can oversee potential signs of efficacy, toxicity and side effects.
The Dutch Tolerance Policy
The Netherlands is recognised as an extremely liberal and accepting country. However, it’s a misconception that all plant-based drugs such as cannabis are legal in the Dutch state. In fact, all non-medical drugs are illegal, but some are decriminalised for personal use, and recreational consumption is largely ‘tolerated’.
Certain rules must be followed under the Dutch tolerance policy. As CBD is a cannabis-derived compound, similar rules also apply to it. To gain a clearer understanding, it’s helpful to gain some historical context and learn about how the laws developed in the country. We’ve compiled a concise history of the cannabis laws in the Netherlands, so keep reading.
Cannabis Laws in the Netherlands: A Concise History
Dating back to the Neolithic period, over 2200 BC is the oldest recorded use of cannabis in the Netherlands. Hemp was used for paper, ropes, ship sails, shoes and textiles during the medieval ages by Europeans. This was when the plant’s potential medicinal properties were first discovered and recorded.
During the 17th century, hemp use was popular in the Netherlands, especially throughout the Dutch Golden Age. This momentous period saw Dutch trade, science, art, and military conquests receive worldwide acclaim. Hemp also became one of the most significant crops for maritime and trade activities among Dutch seafarers.
It wasn’t until the 19th century that the Dutch began to use cannabis as medicine, whereby Dutch pharmacists sold cannabis extracts.
While there seemed to be positives to the plant, the Netherlands prohibited it for diplomatic reasons. It was more important to keep good relations between the governments of neighbouring countries than to legalise the plant.
Introducing the Opium Act
In 1919, the first statutory provisions on illicit drugs were enacted but were confined to opiates and cocaine. The import and export of cannabis was then controlled by the International Opium Convention, which the Netherlands had to sign as a member of the League of Nations.
The Opium Law introduced List I, regulating highly addictive drugs, which was amended in 1928 with new drugs and List II. Here’s what’s included:
List I of the Opium Law:
- Hemp oil – a concentrate of plants from the cannabis species (hemp), obtained by extraction of hemp or hashish, whether mixed with oil or not;
- THC;
- The isomers of THC, including CBD.
List II of the Opium Law:
- Hashish;
- Hemp – all parts of the plant from the cannabis species (hemp), of which the resin has not been extracted, except the seeds.
The Netherlands changed its Opium Act numerous times during the 20th century. The possession, manufacture and sale of hemp products became criminal offences in 1953. In 1956, the definition of hemp was narrowed to include only the dried tops of the plant.
It wasn’t until 1976 that statutory decriminalisation of cannabis took place, yet it set in somewhat earlier. Reforming prohibitive cannabis laws to tolerant cannabis laws lifted the disappointment that previously transpired from enthusiastic plant users.
Current Rules and Regulations
The renewed Opium Act 1976 legally distinguishes between hard and soft drugs. There’s a high risk of harm and addiction with hard drugs, including amphetamine, cocaine, ecstasy, heroin and LSD. Whereas soft drugs, such as hash, marijuana, sedatives and sleeping pills, are less damaging to health, and there’s a low risk of harm and addiction.
The Netherlands’ drug policy has effectively separated these into two markets by largely tolerating soft drugs while strongly suppressing the sale, circulation and use of hard drugs. This was based on the idea that a drug-free Dutch society is unrealistic and unattainable, so it’s best to try and minimise the harm caused by recreational drug use.
The recreational use of cannabis has been decriminalised in the Netherlands. You won’t be prosecuted if you possess it for personal use. The same goes for small quantities of no more than five cannabis plants. Since 1976, cannabis has been tolerated and available in establishments called ‘coffee shops’.
The popularity of coffee shops, where you can buy cannabis and CBD, exploded in the 90s. They’re now infamous in the Netherlands, but no alcoholic drinks may be sold or consumed. Strict government regulations are put in place for how they can operate, including:
- No advertising of the coffee shop or drugs;
- No sales of hard drugs;
- No entrance allowed for minors (people under the age of 18);
- A person cannot buy more than 5 grams of cannabis in a single transaction per day;
- The coffee shop mustn’t have more than 500 grams of cannabis in stock at any time;
- Entrance is prohibited for non-residents of the Netherlands (since 2013);
- The coffee shop may not be a nuisance to the neighbourhood.
Municipalities can also develop further restrictions. For example, the cities of Rotterdam and Amsterdam don’t allow coffee shops to be located within a 250-metre distance from a secondary school. However, this restriction is part of a deal with the Ministry of Justice that exempts Amsterdam from the criterion that only residents of the Netherlands are allowed to enter coffee shops. Therefore, tourists are still permitted to visit Amsterdam’s coffee shops because local politicians feared public nuisance otherwise. About one-quarter of all 380 Dutch municipalities currently allow coffee shops to operate.
The Netherlands is also a party to the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, which prohibits consuming naturally-occurring drugs such as cannabis. In regards to hemp cultivation, this is only permitted under certain conditions; you can’t grow or produce it in the Netherlands without the correct licences.
What are the Laws for CBD?
CBD falls under the Opium Act as a derivative of hemp. As the Act restricts hemp, its extracts, and cannabinoids (THC and its isomers), the production of CBD is prohibited, yet the cannabinoid isn’t explicitly banned.
Like cannabis, CBD is tolerated and treated as a legal product. You can legally buy it in the Netherlands as long as you abide by the law. CBD products and hemp-derived oils are available over-the-counter (OTC) if their THC concentration doesn’t exceed 0.05%. CBD vape oil, however, has been prohibited since July 2019.
After the EU encouraged member states to grow hemp by giving them subsidies in 1999, the cultivation of industrial hemp with less than 0.2% became legal in the Netherlands. Farmers can grow and process EU-certified hemp varieties for fibre and seeds. However, they cannot process it for CBD due to the Act’s restriction on hemp extractions.
CBD is legal only if made from domestically grown hemp processed abroad and sold back in the Netherlands as a final product.
For CBD to be placed on the market, it requires EU authorisation. This is because significant amounts of CBD weren’t consumed before May 1997. Therefore it’s considered a ‘novel food’ under the EU Novel Food Regulation. This regulation has been applicable since January 2018, but it’s non-binding, so member states don’t have to enforce it. Instead, they can implement it in their national law. Reliance upon non-enforcement has now become commonplace in the Netherlands.
What Does This Mean for CBD Businesses?
The CBD industry is prosperous with an abundance of successful businesses, but it doesn’t mean that they don’t fall short from trials and tribulations. The legal framework of the Dutch market is quite vague, so brands must be responsible, follow the rules of good manufacturing standards, and guarantee product safety.
Regardless of whether you’re buying or selling CBD in the Netherlands, you must abide by the following three rules:
- CBD mustn’t contain more than 0.05% THC;
- CBD products shouldn’t contain any health claims;
- It’s advised to not consume more than 160 mg of CBD per day.
For CBD companies wishing to set up a physical store in the Netherlands, this comes with higher prices and expenses for the business owner. It would be wise to sell products online, and in-store as the e-commerce route offers you a wider market, and there’s no limit to opening hours. Professionals should also be well-trained to answer any questions regarding CBD products.
The quality and safety of CBD products are as fundamental as their legality. Thorough research is key. Every product should come with a Certificate of Analysis (COA) to prove the CBD oil has been tested for harmful contaminants like heavy metals or pesticides. Therefore, third-party testing is necessary for transparent, accurate and reputable CBD brands.
Current or prospective CBD business owners need to be aware of the Novel Food Regulation. Several European countries have applied the regulation and ordered retailers to stop selling CBD foods. The Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety (NVWA) hasn’t implemented any changes yet, but the Ministry of Health is working with the food authority to decide future CBD regulations. At the moment, you can legally sell or purchase CBD foods and food supplements with 0.05% THC.
Keep in mind that the municipal authorities decide whether or not coffee shops are allowed to open. When they are, they usually require an operating permit for a catering establishment.
A significant change occurred in 2017 when the House of Representatives passed a law that would partly legalise the production of cannabis. It was announced that an experimental new system would be implemented in certain cities where you could legally acquire cultivated cannabis from a state-appointed producer. This is positive in terms of future developments of CBD businesses and coffee shops.
Furthermore, the Senate passed the Controlled Cannabis Supply Chain Experiment Act on November 12, 2019. Expected to have started mid-2021, this experiment exempts up to ten entrepreneurs, in ten selected municipalities, from the prohibitions pursuant to the Opium Act, legally allowing coffee shops in relevant municipalities to buy their cannabis products. The experiment will endure four to a maximum of five and a half years. We’ll be eagerly awaiting a renewal of the experiment or replacement with definitive legislation.
Always Pure Organics
Always Pure Organics is a white label specialist manufacturer and distributor of CBD products. We’re proud to offer the highest quality wholesale cannabis and cannabinoid products, as bulk ingredients, bulk products, white label and bespoke formulation. Not only that but our regulatory and legal expertise is supported by delivery worldwide.
We aim to delight our business customers by offering the most client-centric experience in the cannabis industry. We’ll do the best we can to support, empower and maximise your success while establishing and growing your brand.
No stone is left unturned as we work across the entire supply chain of the CBD industry, including extraction, production, development, distribution and cannabis breeding. Whatever your requirements, we’ll be proactive with our advice, actions and efficient logistics.
Working with us will give you complete confidence in creating a unique and pure product from scratch. Our product range includes bulk CBD products and white label CBD products, so be sure to have a browse!
Final Thoughts
The CBD industry has a prominent business appetite with many opportunities and competitive advantages. While it’s easy to acquire CBD products in the Netherlands, there are still some restrictions that must be complied with, but the Dutch tolerance policy has set out a common ground for everyone.
As long as CBD establishments meet strict requirements of the Dutch tolerance policy, there will be no regulatory issues leading to prosecution. We hope you’re now more familiar with the country’s views and legal framework about cannabis-derived CBD.
Always Pure Organics can help your CBD business flourish. In-depth information can be found on our website or contact us here, and we’ll be happy to answer any additional questions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is CBD oil?
CBD oil is made by extracting CBD from the cannabis plant. It’s then diluted with a carrier oil like coconut, hemp seed, grapeseed, olive or sunflower oil. Full-spectrum CBD oil does contain THC, unlike CBD isolate and broad-spectrum CBD oils.
How can I start a CBD business?
You can start a CBD business by following these steps: identify your CBD niche and products; understand the laws and regulations around CBD; generate a thorough CBD business plan; organise your business documents; find your CBD supplier; build an e-commerce platform online; determine shipping and payment terms; and market your business.
How can I buy CBD products in bulk?
You can buy CBD products in bulk from most wholesale suppliers. We advise choosing pure products that will allow you to produce any product you wish and build your brand.
What are the best CBD oil companies for bulk wholesale marketing?
Premium markets often have CBD wholesalers who grow high-quality hemp, resulting in high-quality products. You can find the highest quality wholesale cannabis and cannabinoid products here at APO.
What bulk CBD products can I expect to find at Always Pure Organics?
Our pre-produced CBD and cannabinoid products include CBG Oil in Hemp Oil, CBD Oil (hemp or MCT Carrier), High Strength Balm, Daily Lotion, Soft Gel Capsules, Pet CBD Oil (hemp Oil or MCT Carrier) and CBD Patches.
Which white label CBD products are available at Always Pure Organics?
Our white label CBD products include Pet CBD Oil (hemp Oil or MCT Carrier), CBD Oil (hemp or MCT Carrier), CBG Oil in Hemp Oil, Blood Orange Lotion, Lavender Night Cream, High Strength Balm, Tattoo Aftercare Lotion, CBD Gummies, Daily Lotion, Softgel Capsules and CBD Patches.
How expensive is CBD oil in bulk?
Depending on where you buy from, the quantity, and the price per kilogram, the prices for CBD oil in bulk will vary. It’s cheaper to buy CBD in wholesale quantities than in retail. When you buy CBD oil in bulk, you can also profit from selling your products.
What are white label CBD products?
White label CBD products are manufactured by another company or third party, but you can put your brand on the products. You don’t have any involvement in the production. Instead, you can fully focus on developing your brand, increasing sales, and generating high profits.
Is there a difference between private label and white label CBD?
The difference between private label and white label CBD is that private label CBD products are created and sold exclusively to one retailer. The seller of private label brands can make alterations or enhancements to the product. White label CBD products have a standard formulation and are sold to multiple retailers. Retailers cannot make any alterations during the packaging process.
What are the top-rated white label CBD?
At Always Pure Organics, we always maintain quality, always be compliant, and always deliver the best CBD products. Our bespoke formulation is coupled with efficient logistics and worldwide delivery.
References
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/can-cbd-lower-blood-pressure
https://www.government.nl/topics/drugs/toleration-policy-regarding-soft-drugs-and-coffee-shops
https://www.tni.org/files/publication-downloads/cr_ned_def.pdf
https://ec.europa.eu/food/safety/novel-food/legislation_en
https://business.gov.nl/regulation/operating-permit-catering-establishment/
Table of Contents
The Dutch Tolerance Policy and What It Means for CBD Businesses
Table of Contents
Summary
Introduction
Getting to Grips with Cannabidiol
The Dutch Tolerance Policy
What Does This Mean for CBD Businesses?
Always Pure Organics
Final Thoughts
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
References
Summary
With more and more CBD businesses coming to fruition, it’s essential to stay in the know about what you can and can’t do in specific regions worldwide. The Netherlands is one country that springs to mind when you think of a territory with a pro-cannabis reputation, but this is a myth. Citizens must abide by the Dutch tolerance policy. So, what is this, and what does it mean for CBD businesses? This article will give you all the information you need about operating a CBD business in the Netherlands.
Introduction
The Netherlands, often informally referred to as Holland, is well-known for its progressive stance on equality and diversity, bustling with people from all walks of life. It’s the second-most densely populated country in the European Union (EU) and the 16th in the world, with 17.5 million. Those native to the country are referred to as Dutch.
One of the biggest appeals for visiting the Netherlands is its seemingly laid-back and lenient attitude towards cannabis and cannabis products. The country’s most populous city and capital, Amsterdam, is famous for this, often attracting a wealth of tourists each year.
This relaxed approach in the Netherlands is enticing businesspeople to invest in CBD businesses in the area. CBD is on the up as one of the latest trends in the wellness and food industry. Promising scientific research reveals the compound’s range of potential therapeutic benefits, further advancing the industry.
Whether you want to build your own CBD business in the Netherlands or invest in one, Always Pure Organics can help. Our mission is to accelerate the global acceptance of and access to cannabinoids. We’re B2B and a white label manufacturer of the highest quality wholesale cannabis and cannabinoid products, including CBD. Our worldwide delivery means you can access bulk ingredients, bulk products, white label products or bespoke formulations across the globe.
We can provide you with regulatory and legal expertise, and our News page will keep you updated on everything you need to know about investing in CBD businesses. Before we dive into CBD regulations in the Netherlands, let’s take a closer look at the cannabinoid.
Getting to Grips with Cannabidiol
Cannabidiol (CBD) is an active ingredient extracted from the leaves and flowers of the Cannabis sativa plant, which includes roughly 120 different compounds. People may refer to this plant as hemp or marijuana, but there’s a distinction between these two terms—the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content. THC is well-known for its psychoactive properties, and higher THC concentrations are found in marijuana than hemp. Hemp plants have a relatively high CBD concentration and are low on THC.
CBD is a non-addictive compound that’s not responsible for a “high” or state of euphoria. Intriguingly, CBD might inhibit THC’s effects on the nervous system. It’s alleged that receptors in the body are activated by CBD, influencing the body to produce naturally-occurring cannabinoids.
The widespread desirability of CBD is thanks to its potentially powerful and nourishing properties. CBD may relieve physical discomforts or help people maintain holistic wellbeing. There’s a wide variety of CBD products on the market, including oils and tinctures, edibles, vaporisers and topical creams and lotions.
Even though there aren’t typically serious side effects or drug interactions, it’s imperative to be mindful of the potential risks when using CBD. Side effects could range from drowsiness or sedation to diarrhoea and loss of appetite, mood changes, liver injury and low blood pressure.
CBD may also interact with antibiotics, antidepressants, and blood thinners. Take extra precautions in these circumstances and when medications or supplements have a grapefruit warning. This is because both CBD and grapefruit are metabolised by the same enzymes vital for drug metabolism. Additionally, you should speak to your doctor before CBD use, who can oversee potential signs of efficacy, toxicity and side effects.
The Dutch Tolerance Policy
The Netherlands is recognised as an extremely liberal and accepting country. However, it’s a misconception that all plant-based drugs such as cannabis are legal in the Dutch state. In fact, all non-medical drugs are illegal, but some are decriminalised for personal use, and recreational consumption is largely ‘tolerated’.
Certain rules must be followed under the Dutch tolerance policy. As CBD is a cannabis-derived compound, similar rules also apply to it. To gain a clearer understanding, it’s helpful to gain some historical context and learn about how the laws developed in the country. We’ve compiled a concise history of the cannabis laws in the Netherlands, so keep reading.
Cannabis Laws in the Netherlands: A Concise History
Dating back to the Neolithic period, over 2200 BC is the oldest recorded use of cannabis in the Netherlands. Hemp was used for paper, ropes, ship sails, shoes and textiles during the medieval ages by Europeans. This was when the plant’s potential medicinal properties were first discovered and recorded.
During the 17th century, hemp use was popular in the Netherlands, especially throughout the Dutch Golden Age. This momentous period saw Dutch trade, science, art, and military conquests receive worldwide acclaim. Hemp also became one of the most significant crops for maritime and trade activities among Dutch seafarers.
It wasn’t until the 19th century that the Dutch began to use cannabis as medicine, whereby Dutch pharmacists sold cannabis extracts.
While there seemed to be positives to the plant, the Netherlands prohibited it for diplomatic reasons. It was more important to keep good relations between the governments of neighbouring countries than to legalise the plant.
Introducing the Opium Act
In 1919, the first statutory provisions on illicit drugs were enacted but were confined to opiates and cocaine. The import and export of cannabis was then controlled by the International Opium Convention, which the Netherlands had to sign as a member of the League of Nations.
The Opium Law introduced List I, regulating highly addictive drugs, which was amended in 1928 with new drugs and List II. Here’s what’s included:
List I of the Opium Law:
- Hemp oil – a concentrate of plants from the cannabis species (hemp), obtained by extraction of hemp or hashish, whether mixed with oil or not;
- THC;
- The isomers of THC, including CBD.
List II of the Opium Law:
- Hashish;
- Hemp – all parts of the plant from the cannabis species (hemp), of which the resin has not been extracted, except the seeds.
The Netherlands changed its Opium Act numerous times during the 20th century. The possession, manufacture and sale of hemp products became criminal offences in 1953. In 1956, the definition of hemp was narrowed to include only the dried tops of the plant.
It wasn’t until 1976 that statutory decriminalisation of cannabis took place, yet it set in somewhat earlier. Reforming prohibitive cannabis laws to tolerant cannabis laws lifted the disappointment that previously transpired from enthusiastic plant users.
Current Rules and Regulations
The renewed Opium Act 1976 legally distinguishes between hard and soft drugs. There’s a high risk of harm and addiction with hard drugs, including amphetamine, cocaine, ecstasy, heroin and LSD. Whereas soft drugs, such as hash, marijuana, sedatives and sleeping pills, are less damaging to health, and there’s a low risk of harm and addiction.
The Netherlands’ drug policy has effectively separated these into two markets by largely tolerating soft drugs while strongly suppressing the sale, circulation and use of hard drugs. This was based on the idea that a drug-free Dutch society is unrealistic and unattainable, so it’s best to try and minimise the harm caused by recreational drug use.
The recreational use of cannabis has been decriminalised in the Netherlands. You won’t be prosecuted if you possess it for personal use. The same goes for small quantities of no more than five cannabis plants. Since 1976, cannabis has been tolerated and available in establishments called ‘coffee shops’.
The popularity of coffee shops, where you can buy cannabis and CBD, exploded in the 90s. They’re now infamous in the Netherlands, but no alcoholic drinks may be sold or consumed. Strict government regulations are put in place for how they can operate, including:
- No advertising of the coffee shop or drugs;
- No sales of hard drugs;
- No entrance allowed for minors (people under the age of 18);
- A person cannot buy more than 5 grams of cannabis in a single transaction per day;
- The coffee shop mustn’t have more than 500 grams of cannabis in stock at any time;
- Entrance is prohibited for non-residents of the Netherlands (since 2013);
- The coffee shop may not be a nuisance to the neighbourhood.
Municipalities can also develop further restrictions. For example, the cities of Rotterdam and Amsterdam don’t allow coffee shops to be located within a 250-metre distance from a secondary school. However, this restriction is part of a deal with the Ministry of Justice that exempts Amsterdam from the criterion that only residents of the Netherlands are allowed to enter coffee shops. Therefore, tourists are still permitted to visit Amsterdam’s coffee shops because local politicians feared public nuisance otherwise. About one-quarter of all 380 Dutch municipalities currently allow coffee shops to operate.
The Netherlands is also a party to the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, which prohibits consuming naturally-occurring drugs such as cannabis. In regards to hemp cultivation, this is only permitted under certain conditions; you can’t grow or produce it in the Netherlands without the correct licences.
What are the Laws for CBD?
CBD falls under the Opium Act as a derivative of hemp. As the Act restricts hemp, its extracts, and cannabinoids (THC and its isomers), the production of CBD is prohibited, yet the cannabinoid isn’t explicitly banned.
Like cannabis, CBD is tolerated and treated as a legal product. You can legally buy it in the Netherlands as long as you abide by the law. CBD products and hemp-derived oils are available over-the-counter (OTC) if their THC concentration doesn’t exceed 0.05%. CBD vape oil, however, has been prohibited since July 2019.
After the EU encouraged member states to grow hemp by giving them subsidies in 1999, the cultivation of industrial hemp with less than 0.2% became legal in the Netherlands. Farmers can grow and process EU-certified hemp varieties for fibre and seeds. However, they cannot process it for CBD due to the Act’s restriction on hemp extractions.
CBD is legal only if made from domestically grown hemp processed abroad and sold back in the Netherlands as a final product.
For CBD to be placed on the market, it requires EU authorisation. This is because significant amounts of CBD weren’t consumed before May 1997. Therefore it’s considered a ‘novel food’ under the EU Novel Food Regulation. This regulation has been applicable since January 2018, but it’s non-binding, so member states don’t have to enforce it. Instead, they can implement it in their national law. Reliance upon non-enforcement has now become commonplace in the Netherlands.
What Does This Mean for CBD Businesses?
The CBD industry is prosperous with an abundance of successful businesses, but it doesn’t mean that they don’t fall short from trials and tribulations. The legal framework of the Dutch market is quite vague, so brands must be responsible, follow the rules of good manufacturing standards, and guarantee product safety.
Regardless of whether you’re buying or selling CBD in the Netherlands, you must abide by the following three rules:
- CBD mustn’t contain more than 0.05% THC;
- CBD products shouldn’t contain any health claims;
- It’s advised to not consume more than 160 mg of CBD per day.
For CBD companies wishing to set up a physical store in the Netherlands, this comes with higher prices and expenses for the business owner. It would be wise to sell products online, and in-store as the e-commerce route offers you a wider market, and there’s no limit to opening hours. Professionals should also be well-trained to answer any questions regarding CBD products.
The quality and safety of CBD products are as fundamental as their legality. Thorough research is key. Every product should come with a Certificate of Analysis (COA) to prove the CBD oil has been tested for harmful contaminants like heavy metals or pesticides. Therefore, third-party testing is necessary for transparent, accurate and reputable CBD brands.
Current or prospective CBD business owners need to be aware of the Novel Food Regulation. Several European countries have applied the regulation and ordered retailers to stop selling CBD foods. The Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety (NVWA) hasn’t implemented any changes yet, but the Ministry of Health is working with the food authority to decide future CBD regulations. At the moment, you can legally sell or purchase CBD foods and food supplements with 0.05% THC.
Keep in mind that the municipal authorities decide whether or not coffee shops are allowed to open. When they are, they usually require an operating permit for a catering establishment.
A significant change occurred in 2017 when the House of Representatives passed a law that would partly legalise the production of cannabis. It was announced that an experimental new system would be implemented in certain cities where you could legally acquire cultivated cannabis from a state-appointed producer. This is positive in terms of future developments of CBD businesses and coffee shops.
Furthermore, the Senate passed the Controlled Cannabis Supply Chain Experiment Act on November 12, 2019. Expected to have started mid-2021, this experiment exempts up to ten entrepreneurs, in ten selected municipalities, from the prohibitions pursuant to the Opium Act, legally allowing coffee shops in relevant municipalities to buy their cannabis products. The experiment will endure four to a maximum of five and a half years. We’ll be eagerly awaiting a renewal of the experiment or replacement with definitive legislation.
Always Pure Organics
Always Pure Organics is a white label specialist manufacturer and distributor of CBD products. We’re proud to offer the highest quality wholesale cannabis and cannabinoid products, as bulk ingredients, bulk products, white label and bespoke formulation. Not only that but our regulatory and legal expertise is supported by delivery worldwide.
We aim to delight our business customers by offering the most client-centric experience in the cannabis industry. We’ll do the best we can to support, empower and maximise your success while establishing and growing your brand.
No stone is left unturned as we work across the entire supply chain of the CBD industry, including extraction, production, development, distribution and cannabis breeding. Whatever your requirements, we’ll be proactive with our advice, actions and efficient logistics.
Working with us will give you complete confidence in creating a unique and pure product from scratch. Our product range includes bulk CBD products and white label CBD products, so be sure to have a browse!
Final Thoughts
The CBD industry has a prominent business appetite with many opportunities and competitive advantages. While it’s easy to acquire CBD products in the Netherlands, there are still some restrictions that must be complied with, but the Dutch tolerance policy has set out a common ground for everyone.
As long as CBD establishments meet strict requirements of the Dutch tolerance policy, there will be no regulatory issues leading to prosecution. We hope you’re now more familiar with the country’s views and legal framework about cannabis-derived CBD.
Always Pure Organics can help your CBD business flourish. In-depth information can be found on our website or contact us here, and we’ll be happy to answer any additional questions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is CBD oil?
CBD oil is made by extracting CBD from the cannabis plant. It’s then diluted with a carrier oil like coconut, hemp seed, grapeseed, olive or sunflower oil. Full-spectrum CBD oil does contain THC, unlike CBD isolate and broad-spectrum CBD oils.
How can I start a CBD business?
You can start a CBD business by following these steps: identify your CBD niche and products; understand the laws and regulations around CBD; generate a thorough CBD business plan; organise your business documents; find your CBD supplier; build an e-commerce platform online; determine shipping and payment terms; and market your business.
How can I buy CBD products in bulk?
You can buy CBD products in bulk from most wholesale suppliers. We advise choosing pure products that will allow you to produce any product you wish and build your brand.
What are the best CBD oil companies for bulk wholesale marketing?
Premium markets often have CBD wholesalers who grow high-quality hemp, resulting in high-quality products. You can find the highest quality wholesale cannabis and cannabinoid products here at APO.
What bulk CBD products can I expect to find at Always Pure Organics?
Our pre-produced CBD and cannabinoid products include CBG Oil in Hemp Oil, CBD Oil (hemp or MCT Carrier), High Strength Balm, Daily Lotion, Soft Gel Capsules, Pet CBD Oil (hemp Oil or MCT Carrier) and CBD Patches.
Which white label CBD products are available at Always Pure Organics?
Our white label CBD products include Pet CBD Oil (hemp Oil or MCT Carrier), CBD Oil (hemp or MCT Carrier), CBG Oil in Hemp Oil, Blood Orange Lotion, Lavender Night Cream, High Strength Balm, Tattoo Aftercare Lotion, CBD Gummies, Daily Lotion, Softgel Capsules and CBD Patches.
How expensive is CBD oil in bulk?
Depending on where you buy from, the quantity, and the price per kilogram, the prices for CBD oil in bulk will vary. It’s cheaper to buy CBD in wholesale quantities than in retail. When you buy CBD oil in bulk, you can also profit from selling your products.
What are white label CBD products?
White label CBD products are manufactured by another company or third party, but you can put your brand on the products. You don’t have any involvement in the production. Instead, you can fully focus on developing your brand, increasing sales, and generating high profits.
Is there a difference between private label and white label CBD?
The difference between private label and white label CBD is that private label CBD products are created and sold exclusively to one retailer. The seller of private label brands can make alterations or enhancements to the product. White label CBD products have a standard formulation and are sold to multiple retailers. Retailers cannot make any alterations during the packaging process.
What are the top-rated white label CBD?
At Always Pure Organics, we always maintain quality, always be compliant, and always deliver the best CBD products. Our bespoke formulation is coupled with efficient logistics and worldwide delivery.
References
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/can-cbd-lower-blood-pressure
https://www.government.nl/topics/drugs/toleration-policy-regarding-soft-drugs-and-coffee-shops
https://www.tni.org/files/publication-downloads/cr_ned_def.pdf
https://ec.europa.eu/food/safety/novel-food/legislation_en
https://business.gov.nl/regulation/operating-permit-catering-establishment/
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