Cannabis in Malta

Legalization and Regulations

In 2021, Malta became the first EU country to legalize recreational cannabis for personal use and possession. Individuals over 18 can:

  • Carry up to 7g of cannabis
  • Grow four plants per household
  • Possess up to 50g of dried cannabis

The Authority on the Responsible Use of Cannabis (ARUC) oversees the implementation and regulation of this law.

Cannabis Social Clubs (CSCs)

Cannabis clubs, known as 'Cannabis Harm Reduction Associations,' are the sole legal source for purchasing cannabis in Malta. These member-only, non-profit organizations operate under strict guidelines.

Joining a Cannabis Club in Malta

To become a member of a Cannabis Club in Malta:

  1. Visit ARUC's website (https://aruc.mt)
  2. Navigate to the "Associations" tab
  3. Select your preferred club from the list of approved associations
  4. Contact the club via phone or email for membership procedures

Note that clubs have the right to refuse membership, and currently, only three clubs are operational with limited membership spots.

Starting a Cannabis Club in Malta

To start a Cannabis Club in Malta:

  1. Decide on the club category based on intended membership (50 to 500 members)
  2. Propose a name for your cannabis club
  3. Provide details such as registered address and information about founding members, administrators, and key persons
  4. Prepare and submit required documentation, including:
  • Draft Statute of the Cannabis Association
  • Logo
  • Membership Policies
  • Organizational Structure
  • Personal Declaration Forms and Source of Wealth
  • Fit and Proper Enquiry
  • Code of Conduct
  • Declaration by an Architect
  • Detailed Floor Plan
  • Operating Environment Details
  • Distribution Process Details
  • Human Resources Plan
  • Financial Plan

Current State of Cannabis Clubs

As of May 2024:

  • Three legal cannabis clubs are operational
  • 750 individuals signed up for club memberships in the first month
  • Seven associations have been issued licenses
  • Remaining clubs are undergoing testing before operation

Malta's Approach to Cannabis Regulation

Malta's cannabis reform is focused on harm reduction rather than profit maximization. As Leonid McKay, executive chairperson of ARUC, stated: "Our reform is not about the maximization of profits... In Malta, we strongly believe that a full-blown commercialized market goes against the very principles of harm reduction."