The European medical cannabis sector is undergoing rapid transformation. A new report, The European Cannabis Report: 10th Edition, highlights the pace of regulatory reform, patient access, and commercial scale across Europe – and places the UK on the cusp of its most significant growth phase to date.
At Woodley BioReg, we’ve been watching these developments closely. As regulatory consultants supporting compliance, licensing, and market access across life sciences, we believe the findings offer clear signals for businesses and investors operating in, or looking to enter, the UK market.
A Decade of Change, A Decade of Progress
Over the past ten years, Europe has moved from tentative pilot programmes to the implementation of fully-fledged medical and adult-use cannabis frameworks. Germany remains the frontrunner, with its €670 million market supercharged by the April 2024 MedCanG law. By removing cannabis from the country’s narcotics list, Germany has simplified access and encouraged investment – supporting over 20 telemedicine clinics and expanding imports.
Other countries such as the Czech Republic and Denmark are quickly becoming major exporters, with reforms enabling cultivation and large-scale shipments to Germany. Poland, now the fourth-largest market, is on track to reach €72 million by 2025.
Where Does the UK Stand?
The UK market remains entirely private, projected to exceed €300 million in 2025. Over 30 telehealth platforms are operating, yet high treatment costs and the lack of public reimbursement continue to restrict access.
However, times are shifting. Domestic production is scaling, and regulatory frameworks are maturing. The UK is beginning to mirror broader European trends – particularly around digital access and cultivation – laying the foundation for a more stable and structured market.
As Ash Ramzan from WBR notes, “The UK medical cannabis market is entering a new phase – defined by scale, sophistication, and strong signals of long-term viability.”
The Role of Regulation
As the market matures, so too does the need for robust regulatory frameworks. At WBR, we work with clients across the cannabis supply chain to ensure compliance with MHRA and EU standards, supporting everything from licensing and GDP/GMP readiness to quality assurance and product approvals.
Europe’s shift toward harmonised standards and greater patient access presents both a challenge and an opportunity: the challenge of navigating diverse and evolving legislation, and the opportunity to set new benchmarks for safety, efficacy, and patient care.
Looking Ahead
With the European medical cannabis market expected to surpass €1.5 billion by 2030, UK stakeholders – whether licensed producers, clinics, or distributors – must be prepared to adapt, innovate, and comply.
Our team at Woodley BioReg stands ready to support businesses through this next phase of growth, helping you meet regulatory obligations and seize emerging opportunities.
Back to News + Insights