Is CBD Legal In Spain?

As consumers begin to discover the benefits of CBD the market begins to grow and develop. The word about CBD has spread across the world and it’s predicted to become a multi billion pound industry towards the end of 2020. With CBD becoming part of the daily routines for many, when heading abroad it can often bring up questions as to whether CBD is legal in the country being travelled to. One of the most questioned countries is Spain. Spain is one of the world’s biggest hemp growers and exporters, but it isn’t completely straight forward in its approach into CBD products sold within its own borders.For this reason, we’ve put together this post in order to clear it up once and for all. Is CBD legal in Spain? 

What Is CBD?

Before we delve into the legalities, it will first be beneficial to explain what CBD is and what it isn’t. Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a cannabinoid derived from the hemp plant. The hemp plant is responsible for over 100 different cannabidiols, CBD being just one of them. CBD has grown in popularity throughout the last few years due to its reported effectiveness to help a range of conditions, including chronic pain, stress, anxiety and even inflammation. Many people get CBD mixed up with the illegal cannabis plant. Whilst CBD can be extracted from the cannabis plant it becomes completely legal in its CBD form due to its lack of the THC cannabinoid. THC is the illegal psychoactive substance responsible for the high euphoric feeling associated typically with recreational cannabis users. The majority of CBD products will contain less than 0.2% THC, which is a tiny trace and not anywhere near enough to get a CBD user high. In the UK, it is illegal for CBD products to contain greater than 0.2% THC. Our products therefore all comply with this limit.

What’s The Legal Status of CBD In Spain?

In 2018 the AECOSAN (the Spanish Agency Responsible for Consumer Affairs, Food Security and Nutrition) declared that CBD products sold as health foods or supplements are illegal. However this ban does not cover cosmetic products meaning CBD can legally be sold for external use. CBD oil can therefore be used as part of the ingredients for creams and topicals, although it can not be sold alone.

Can You Make Your Own CBD Oil?

Although CBD oil is illegal to buy, legislation in Spain allows a number of hemp strains to be cultivated for personal use. People in Spain are therefore permitted to make their own CBD oils, however the hemp should contain no more than 0.2% THC. In Spain, drug laws do not cover the privacy of one’s home, meaning if the hemp plants are not visible to the public then it is perfectly acceptable.

Are There Any Grey Areas?

Although we’ve established that CBD oil is illegal to be sold within Spain, it isn’t uncommon to find CBD oil products on Spanish high streets and in online stores as the laws are very lightly enforced. We would not suggest you buy these products though as possession is still illegal.

There is also a grey area within the law which means cannabis and CBD products can be used within private residence clubs. In order to keep tourists away from these clubs though there is usually a 15 day joining period. It’s also likely you’ll need an invite from an existing member and proof of residence.

So Can I Take CBD Oil To Spain?

If you’re heading to Spain on your holidays you may be wondering whether you can take your CBD oil with you. The simple answer is you should definitely not. As CBD oil is illegal if you’re caught it is considered drug trafficking. You will risk a fine of up to €600,000 and could potentially face a lengthy prison sentence. 

The Final Word

The biggest takeaway is that CBD is illegal in Spain except for products which are designed for topical use. Although CBD oils are therefore illegal, it is not uncommon to find them in high street shops and online stores as the law is loosely enforced. Thanks to a loophole it means CBD products can be consumed within over 500 cannabis clubs throughout the country. It’s also possible to cultivate cannabis at home in order to make and consume your own CBD products. Finally, if you are travelling to Spain we would strongly advise against taking any CBD products with you.