Swiss CBD Hash Market: FOPH and Customs Figures 2024

Introduction

The Swiss legal cannabis market, particularly the CBD Hash segment, has experienced notable growth in recent years. Since legislation allowed the commercialization of hemp containing less than 1% THC, many players have ventured into the production, importation, and distribution of cannabidiol (CBD) products. In this context, CBD Hash has quickly become one of the flagship products, appreciated for its high CBD content and aromatic profile.

According to the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH), CBD is not classified as a narcotic as long as the THC content remains below 1% (1). This has positioned Switzerland as one of the most advanced European countries in the field of low-THC cannabis. The aim of this article is to provide a comprehensive overview of the Swiss CBD Hash market, relying notably on information available up to 2024 from the FOPH and the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (FOCBS, formerly the Federal Customs Administration). We will review legislation, consumption trends, production methods, product quality, as well as the rise of exports and imports in this very particular hemp segment.

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In Switzerland, cannabis is subject to the Narcotics Act (LStup, RS 812.121), which prohibits the production and sale of cannabis for recreational use if the THC content exceeds 1% (2). However, low-THC hemp (i.e., less than 1%) is legal and can be cultivated, processed, and marketed for various purposes, including the production of CBD flowers, cannabidiol-rich oils, and CBD Hash. CBD Hash is a concentrate obtained from the resin of authorized hemp varieties, ensuring its final THC content complies with the legislation.

The legal status of CBD is also clarified by the FOPH, which considers cannabidiol a non-psychoactive cannabinoid not listed as a controlled narcotic substance, as long as the respective THC content of the product remains below 1% (1). This regulation has created a favorable environment for the development of a significant market for CBD-based products, with Hash being a flagship product for consumers seeking a concentrated product.

2. Role of the FOPH and Customs

The FOPH is responsible for public health protection and, as such, implements guidelines regarding legal cannabis. It provides official information on consumption, potential risks, and therapeutic uses of cannabidiol (1). Additionally, the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (FOCBS) monitors the import and export of hemp and derivative products to ensure Swiss regulations, particularly the 1% THC limit, are respected (3).

Swiss customs conduct border controls and collaborate with accredited laboratories to analyze the THC content of products suspected of reaching or exceeding the legal threshold. When goods do not meet the criteria, they may be confiscated, and the holder sanctioned. Conversely, when CBD Hash complies with legal provisions, it can circulate freely in the Swiss market.

3. Legislative Pilots and Reform Prospects

Since 2021, several pilot projects around so-called “recreational use” cannabis have been implemented (1). Although these programs primarily target high-THC cannabis, they reflect a broader political willingness to address the legal status of cannabis and its derivatives in Switzerland. Looking ahead to 2024 and 2025, various political and economic actors expect further reforms or a gradual relaxation of legislation. However, at the time of writing, the exact changes planned for 2024 remain subject to parliamentary debates and have not been finalized.

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1. General Market Evolution Since 2017

The authorization to cultivate and market low-THC hemp truly accelerated from 2017. At that time, Switzerland’s reputation as a pioneer in CBD regulation attracted the interest of many national and international companies. Swiss SMEs specializing in hemp cultivation saw their revenues increase rapidly, notably thanks to the export of dried flowers and oils.

As a diversification effect, CBD Hash appeared on the market as a concentrated alternative. Its success is based on several factors:

  • High concentration of CBD and terpenes.
  • Varied modes of consumption (vaporization, infusion, etc.).
  • A resinous appearance and often more pronounced taste than classic dried flowers.

In 2023, although there are no exhaustive statistics published by the FOPH, some estimates from professional sectors, corroborated by customs analyses, suggest that CBD Hash sales have continued to rise (3). This observation is mainly based on the volume of import and export declarations, as well as feedback from economic actors in the sector.

2. Estimated Customs Data for 2024

At the beginning of 2024, preliminary data communicated by the FOCBS on the import/export of hemp-based products (including CBD Hash) confirmed the growth dynamic. Without citing precise official figures – as, to date, only a partial report has been released – the customs administration notes a steady increase in the volume of CBD products imported from European countries where legislation is similar, such as Italy, France (on certain legal hemp-based products), and some Eastern European countries.

While Switzerland imports an increasingly significant share of its raw material, it also exports finished CBD Hash, notably to Germany, which is experiencing its own growing enthusiasm for CBD. This trend, already anticipated in 2022 and 2023, seems to be confirmed for 2024, according to elements shared by Swiss customs (3).

3. FOPH Observations on Consumption

On the FOPH side, annual surveys on the consumption of drugs and psychoactive substances – including cannabis – report relative stability in high-THC consumption, while CBD products are gaining popularity among consumers seeking a relaxing alternative without marked psychotropic effects (1). CBD resin (CBD Hash) remains, however, a niche product compared to dried flowers.

Feedback from independent laboratories confirms that most CBD Hash samples analyzed in Switzerland have a THC content below 1% and a variable CBD content, often ranging between 10% and 30%, depending on the production method and hemp variety used. Furthermore, no major contamination (pesticides or heavy metals) has been reported as a systemic issue, thanks to relatively strict quality control imposed by legislation (4).

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How is CBD Hash Produced in Switzerland?

1. Variety Selection

To produce legal CBD Hash, Swiss growers use hemp varieties selected for their low THC content and high CBD content. The official European catalog also regulates access to certain certified seeds. Each batch of hemp must be laboratory-tested to ensure it does not exceed the 1% THC threshold authorized by Swiss legislation (2).

2. Manufacturing Processes

CBD Hash is presented in the form of resin, obtained through various extraction processes:

  1. Manual extraction (or sieving):

    • Hemp flowers are gently rubbed or sieved to collect trichomes rich in active ingredients.
    • These trichomes are then pressed and heated to form a compact resin.

  2. Mechanical or dry extraction:

    • Machines equipped with sieves and vibration systems collect the resin.
    • This allows for larger-scale production while ensuring a consistent THC and CBD content through various controls.

  3. Solvent or supercritical CO₂ extraction (rarer for traditional CBD Hash), generally reserved for oils:

    • Some producers use a process similar to CBD oil to separate compounds, then integrate the resin into a mixed base.

Each producer must ensure that the finished product complies with the quality standards imposed by Swiss law, particularly regarding the THC content (always below 1%). Certificates of analysis are often made available to distributors and consumers to attest to this compliance (4).

3. Quality Control and Laboratory Analyses

To reassure consumers and comply with legislation, CBD Hash producers and importers collaborate with accredited laboratories tasked with analyzing:

  • THC content.
  • The proportion of CBD and other cannabinoids (CBG, CBN, etc.).
  • Terpenes, responsible for the aromatic profile.
  • Any pesticide or heavy metal residues.

The Ordinance on the Control of Narcotics (OCStup, RS 812.121.1) specifies that commercial transactions of low-THC hemp must prove their legality through up-to-date analysis reports (4). This ensures a certain level of transparency and safety for consumers.

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Consumption Methods and Usage Tips

1. Vaporization

One of the most popular methods for consuming CBD Hash remains vaporization. Dedicated devices allow the product to be heated without burning, thus reducing the production of potentially harmful substances associated with combustion. Many users appreciate vaporization as it allows them to perceive the aromas and terpenes of CBD Hash in all their complexity while effectively benefiting from cannabidiol.

2. Infusion

For hot beverage enthusiasts, infusing CBD Hash in milk or a fatty substance (such as coconut oil) is a growing option. Since cannabinoids are liposoluble, adding a fatty substance during infusion promotes CBD absorption. To date, there is no strict official recommendation from the FOPH on the use of CBD in infusion, but this method is generally considered safe for an adult audience without specific contraindications (1).

3. Culinary Preparations

More and more chefs and cooking enthusiasts are interested in introducing CBD concentrates (including Hash) into their recipes to create original dishes and offer a potential relaxing effect. It is important to remember that ingesting CBD may require a longer action time than inhalation. Effects may appear after 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on individual metabolism.

Storage and Usage Precautions

1. Optimal Storage

To maintain the quality and potency of CBD Hash, it is recommended to store it in a cool, dry place away from light. Temperature fluctuations and humidity levels can alter the consistency and chemical composition of the product. An airtight container, preferably glass, placed in a dark cupboard is often the best storage option.

2. Comply with Legislation and Health Advice

Although CBD Hash is legal in Switzerland, it is essential to comply with local laws when traveling abroad. Some neighboring countries have stricter regulations regarding hemp-based products. Therefore, before taking CBD Hash on a trip, always check the regulations of the destination country.

Regarding health, the FOPH emphasizes that CBD is not a miracle product and that it is preferable to seek medical advice for therapeutic use (1). People with specific conditions or taking particular medications should consult a professional before consuming CBD Hash.

Future Prospects of the Swiss CBD Hash Market

1. Gradual Expansion of the European Market

Switzerland has long been a pioneer for CBD in Europe. However, several neighboring countries are beginning to consider more advanced legalization or decriminalization of cannabis, whether with or without THC. As the legislative framework evolves in these countries, new export opportunities for Swiss CBD Hash could emerge. Swiss producers, renowned for the quality of their products and strict controls, could benefit from a high-end image.

2. Towards Harmonization of Quality Standards

At the European level, discussions are underway on harmonizing authorized THC thresholds. Some EU member states are considering raising the current ceiling (0.2% or 0.3%) to align with the Swiss model (1%). If such harmonization were to materialize, the cross-border CBD Hash market would be greatly facilitated.

Moreover, stricter standards regarding contaminant analysis could be implemented internationally, reinforcing the importance of laboratory certifications. In this context, Switzerland would be well-positioned thanks to its expertise in the field and state-of-the-art infrastructure.

3. Innovations in Production

Even though CBD resin is a product traditionally made by sieving or pressing, more modern processes could be developed, such as mixing terpene-rich varieties with isolated CBD extracts. Researchers are also interested in the effect of other cannabinoids (CBG, CBC, etc.), which could give Hash new potential properties or flavor profiles.

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Conclusion

The Swiss CBD Hash market is part of a particular legislative context where hemp containing less than 1% THC is considered legal and regulated by the Narcotics Act (LStup) and the Ordinance on the Control of Narcotics (OCStup). Since 2017, the popularity of cannabidiol-based products has continued to grow, supported by the expertise of Swiss producers and the rise of exports to European countries.

In 2024, according to initial indications from the FOPH and customs, CBD Hash confirms its place in the Swiss market. Quality controls have intensified, strengthening consumer confidence. While pilot projects and legislative reforms around cannabis continue, CBD Hash already enjoys a fairly clear framework in Switzerland, offering promising future prospects both nationally and internationally.

It is important to remember that CBD Hash is not a medication. Consumers interested in potential therapeutic effects should consult a healthcare professional. More generally, the vitality of this market also depends on maintaining coherent regulation, increased transparency on product composition, and, of course, ongoing scientific research.

Today, the entire Swiss hemp sector, particularly companies specializing in CBD Hash, is preparing for new legislative developments, possibly induced by the expansion of cantonal experiments or the revision of import/export rules. The figures published in 2024, even if they still need to be refined, illustrate the strength and potential of this sector. Partnerships between producers, laboratories, and distributors are set to consolidate, promising a future where CBD resin will continue to establish itself as a flagship product of Swiss hemp.

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Reliable Sources:

  1. Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH). “Cannabis: General Information.” Available at: https://www.bag.admin.ch/bag/en/home/gesund-leben/sucht-und-gesundheit/cannabis.html (accessed 10.09.2023).
  2. Narcotics Act (LStup, RS 812.121).
  3. Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (FOCBS, formerly Federal Customs Administration). “Information on substances subject to narcotics legislation.” Available at: https://www.bazg.admin.ch/ (accessed 10.09.2023).
  4. Ordinance on the Control of Narcotics (OCStup, RS 812.121.1).