SQDC — Quebec Cannabis Law
Provincial Licensing — SQDC Monopoly in Quebec
Unlike other Canadian provinces, Quebec does not issue private retail cannabis licences. The Société québécoise du cannabis (SQDC) — a wholly owned subsidiary of the Société des alcools du Québec (SAQ) — operates all cannabis retail stores in the province. Federal licensed producers who wish to supply Quebec must negotiate supply agreements with the SQDC. There is no pathway for private retail store operators in Quebec.
Key Takeaways
- SQDC operates all cannabis retail in Quebec — no private retail licences are issued
- Licensed producers must negotiate supply contracts directly with the SQDC
- The SQDC controls product selection, pricing, and shelf placement in Quebec
- Producers targeting Quebec should understand SQDC's product listing criteria and sustainability commitments
Key Terms
Other Quebec Cannabis Law Topics
Looking for US state coverage?
Browse our 50-state cannabis law guides covering § 280E taxes, banking, licensing, compliance, federal rescheduling, and M&A.
Browse US States →Need Quebec counsel?
Schedule a consultation with Hoban Law Group
Our team prepares a province-specific regulatory briefing before your call.
Engage Hoban Law Group