Hemp policies and regulations in Europe have historically been a patchwork of sorts, and that patchwork has resulted in a considerable amount of confusion and conflict. Arguably, the most noteworthy example of that can be found in Italy, where domestic lawmakers have adopted hemp policies that directly conflict with European Union policies.
Last month, lawmakers in Italy passed a 'security decree' measure that bans all processing, distribution, trade, and transport of 'cultivated hemp inflorescences.' Italy's cannabis light sector currently employs an estimated 22,000 people.
The lack of harmonized continental hemp rules and regulations has created a lot of headaches for Europe's industry members, including Europe's farmers who want to cultivate a crop that is experiencing increased demand in Europe and around the world. A group of Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) is pushing for a legal framework to provide farmers with more certainty.
"Agriculture-focused MEPs are throwing their weight behind a push to secure EU rules on the cultivation of non-intoxicating cannabis – a move aimed at bypassing national restrictions on the taboo crop." reported Euractiv in its original coverage.
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