international policy
International Cannabis Policy
Cross-border cannabis law, international regulatory frameworks, export/import compliance, and global expansion strategy for cannabis operators and policy stakeholders.
International Cannabis Policy: The Global Opportunity
Cannabis legalization is a global movement. Canada, Germany, Thailand, Malta, and dozens of other countries have implemented or are implementing national cannabis programs. The UN 2020 reclassification of cannabis opened new pathways for international research and commerce. For U.S. cannabis operators looking to expand internationally — or international operators entering the U.S. market — the legal landscape is complex, evolving, and full of both opportunity and risk.
Hoban Law Group's international practice advises cannabis clients on cross-border regulatory strategy, international licensing and market entry, and the interface between U.S. cannabis law and the laws of jurisdictions where our clients seek to operate.
Why International Cannabis Law Is Different
International cannabis transactions do not benefit from the state-by-state regulatory expertise that governs U.S. market entry. Each country has its own licensing structure, ownership requirements, testing standards, and compliance obligations. Cross-border transactions involve treaties, import/export controls, foreign investment regulations, and currency controls that do not exist in domestic U.S. transactions.
Our team works with local counsel in relevant jurisdictions and brings U.S. expertise to international engagements where our clients interests require both.
Our International Services
Market Entry Analysis: Regulatory landscape assessment, licensing pathway analysis, and competitive analysis for international market entry.
Cross-Border Transactions: Legal structuring for U.S. companies acquiring or partnering with international cannabis operations, including treaty analysis and foreign investment compliance.
Export/Import Compliance: Medical cannabis export programs in Canada, the Netherlands, and other countries create opportunities for U.S. operators — and significant compliance obligations. We advise on the applicable frameworks.
International Policy Advocacy: For policy stakeholders and trade associations operating in international forums, we provide regulatory expertise and strategic advocacy support.
Hemp Global Commerce: The global hemp market is more accessible than cannabis given its non-controlled status in many jurisdictions. We advise hemp brands on international market expansion and compliance.
Representative Matters
Canadian Market Entry for U.S. MSO
Advised U.S. multi-state operator on regulatory requirements for Canadian market entry, including Health Canada licensing, ownership disclosure requirements, and cross-border corporate structure considerations.
German Cannabis Legalization Market Analysis
Prepared comprehensive analysis of Germany adult-use legalization framework for investor client evaluating German market entry, covering licensing eligibility, local regulatory layers, and competitive landscape.
UN Reclassification Impact Analysis
Assessed implications of 2020 CND reclassification of cannabis for U.S. hemp and medical cannabis export programs, advising trade association on advocacy priorities at national and international levels.
Representative Matters
EU Cannabinoid Market Entry: Navigating Novel Food Authorization and Cross-Border Trade Compliance
Advised a US hemp extract exporter on EU novel food authorization requirements and cross-border trade compliance for CBD isolate and full-spectrum products entering Germany and the Netherlands.
Tribal Cannabis Compact: Negotiating a State-Tribal Cannabis Commerce Agreement
Represented a tribal nation in negotiating a cannabis commerce compact with a western state, establishing tax revenue sharing and cross-jurisdictional sale rights.
Related Insights
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can a U.S. cannabis company legally operate in Canada?
- U.S. cannabis companies can hold ownership positions in Canadian licensed cannabis producers, subject to Health Canada ownership disclosure and suitability requirements. Cross-border transactions are structurally complex because U.S. banks cannot finance cannabis businesses and the companies must navigate Canadian foreign investment rules. We advise on structures that work within both regulatory systems.
- What is the legal status of hemp in international trade?
- Hemp international legal status varies by country. The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp domestically, but exporting hemp products requires compliance with the destination country import rules. Many countries have legalized hemp and hemp-derived CBD, but some maintain restrictions. A country-by-country analysis is essential before establishing international distribution.
- How does the UN drug treaty system affect U.S. cannabis law?
- The UN drug control treaties obligate signatory nations, including the U.S., to control cannabis. However, the 2020 CND vote reclassifying cannabis opened new pathways for national programs. The treaties create tension with state legalization but have not prevented state programs from operating.
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