TheEuropean Union turned on the spotlight on HHC: semi-synthetic cannabinoid that has gained popularity among cannabis users in recent years.
In particular, the European Commission is evaluating its inclusion among the prohibited substances. A decision that could have significant repercussions on the legal cannabis market. But what is behind this choice and what will the consequences be?
Ban HHC: the European Commission proposal
Classify HHC as psychotropic substance to be included in Annex II of the United Nations Convention.
This is it the invitation of the European Commission to all member states of the union, who will have to decide whether to ban or not the cannabinoid in the next session of the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs.
The EU body's main concerns are consumer safety. Indeed, although first synthesized in 1944, HHC is a relatively new substance and there are no studies on its long-term effects.
Health authorities fear possible risks to public health, considering that HHC is mainly produced in laboratory and that its purity is not assured.
Another critical point is the growing spread of HHC among young people, who consider it as a legal alternative to THC, given the similar effects. With the difference that it has not yet been uniformly regulated and therefore has (more) free access.
What will the consequences be for the legal cannabis market?
Entered in Table I of narcotic substances, Italy it is among the EU countries to have already banned the cannabinoid in 2023, together with France, Austria, Malta and the Czech Republic.
However, its ban at European level would have strong consequences in countries where HHC it is still used legally or is in a gray area.
In particular, manufacturers and retailers they will have to adapt quickly, eliminating from the market products that have achieved great commercial success.
Many consumers will likely move to legal alternatives, such as CBD or other emerging cannabinoids, but there is a risk that the ban will also promotethe growth of the black market, from which to acquire HHC illegally.
