Is CBD Legal in Portugal? 2026 Laws & 0.2% THC Rules Explained

Discover the rules of CBD legislation in Portugal

Interest in CBD Legislation Portugal, What Does The Law Actually Say? has risen recently. This curious shift is closely linked to the growing acceptance of cannabis cultivation in the country. As such, many would-be producers and consumers of CBD products are left wondering about the rules governing this emerging market. This blog will cover the ins and outs of CBD legislation in Portugal, helping you figure out how to navigate the rules of this budding industry.

GrowerIQ’s cannabis production software can help you achieve your objectives by providing valuable insights into the regulations and best practices for cannabis plantation in Portugal.

Is CBD Legal in Portugal in 2026?

Yes, CBD is legal in Portugal in 2026, provided the products contain less than 0.2% THC. Hemp-derived CBD products—including oils, topicals, and other non-food items—are freely available without a prescription and can be purchased from pharmacies, specialty shops, and online retailers throughout the country.

Portugal’s legal framework for CBD stems from Law 30/2000, which decriminalized personal possession of all drugs for personal use, and subsequent regulations governing industrial hemp cultivation. The country permits the cultivation of EU-approved hemp varieties that naturally contain less than 0.2% THC, and products derived from these plants are classified as legal provided they meet specific regulatory requirements. For a broader understanding of Portugal’s overall cannabis legal framework, including how medical and recreational cannabis are treated differently, producers should familiarize themselves with the multi-tier regulatory structure overseen by Infarmed, the Portuguese medicines and health products authority.

However, the distinction between hemp-derived CBD and cannabis-derived CBD is critical for commercial operators. Hemp-derived CBD products with THC content below the 0.2% threshold do not require prescriptions and fall outside pharmaceutical regulations. In contrast, cannabis products exceeding 0.2% THC—even if marketed for their CBD content—are classified as controlled substances and require prescriptions from licensed physicians under Portugal’s medical cannabis program established in 2018.

EU Novel Food regulations present an additional layer of compliance for CBD-infused food products and dietary supplements. While CBD oils and topical cosmetics are generally permitted, edible products containing CBD face strict Novel Food authorization requirements that many producers find difficult to navigate. The European Commission has not yet granted broad Novel Food authorization for CBD in food applications, leaving CBD-infused foods and supplements in a regulatory gray area that Portuguese authorities enforce with increasing scrutiny.

For B2B cannabis producers and processors operating in Portugal, understanding these regulatory distinctions is essential for compliance. Hemp cultivation for CBD extraction requires adherence to agricultural licensing protocols, seed-to-sale tracking systems, and laboratory testing to verify THC content remains within legal limits. Medical cannabis production, by contrast, operates under pharmaceutical-grade manufacturing standards with significantly more stringent oversight and quality control requirements.

Basics Of CBD In Portugal

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound found in both:

• Hemp 
• Cannabis

Unlike THC or tetrahydrocannabinol, CBD does not have any psychoactive effects. In other words, it won’t get you high. As a result, CBD has gained popularity as a natural alternative for various health and wellness applications, such as:

• Reducing anxiety
• Managing pain
• Improving sleep

Hemp CBD Portugal

CBD products derived from hemp are legal in Portugal as long as they contain less than 0.2 percent THC. The country’s progressive stance on cannabis regulation has made CBD widely available in:

• Local shops
• Online

The Basics of Hemp in Portugal

Hemp is a variety of cannabis that contains very low levels of THC (less than 0.3 percent), which means it does not have psychoactive effects. In Portugal, as in most EU countries, hemp is legally cultivated and used, provided it adheres to the THC content limit. 

Humans have used hemp for centuries for various purposes, such as making food, clothing, and other industrial uses. Unlike marijuana, which is often associated with illegal drug use, hemp is a non-intoxicating plant with a wide array of applications. In recent years, hemp has gained popularity as a sustainable resource for making biodegradable plastics and construction materials.

Portugal’s Cannabis Culture

Cannabis is a plant that people around the world recognize for various reasons—medical, recreational, or otherwise. The plant contains many compounds, but the most controversial one is THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is responsible for the high or intoxicating effects associated with cannabis. This high-THC variety of cannabis is often referred to as marijuana. 

On the other hand, there is another type of cannabis known as hemp, which contains very little THC, typically 0.2% or less. Hemp is non-intoxicating and has been used by humans for centuries, from making food and clothing to other industrial uses. In Portugal, as in most European Union countries, hemp is legally cultivated and used, provided it adheres to the THC content limit.

Is CBD Legal In Portugal?

CBD legislation in Portugal permits medicinal use with a prescription and allows possession of CBD products containing under 0.2% THC. This gives consumers a clear path to access CBD without legal concerns for personal use.

The Long Answer to CBD Legislation in Portugal 

But in truth, the legal status of cannabidiol in Portugal is a bit more complicated. Back in 2001, Portugal passed a law that decriminalized the possession and use of all drugs, including cannabis. 

Today, if authorities catch you with a small quantity of drug (enough for less than 10 days of personal use), the Commission for Dissuasion of Drug Addiction will need to examine you. This committee of legal and medical experts and social workers determines if you need treatment and whether there will be administrative penalties.

CBD Conditions

CBD itself was utterly legal until 2018. Then, following the EU’s novel food law, Portugal banned CBD as a food product. Also in 2018, medical cannabis became legal, and people could purchase it from pharmacies with a licensed doctor’s prescription. 

Some of the conditions that make a patient eligible for a prescription include nausea from:

• Chemotherapy
• Chronic pain
• Post-traumatic stress disorder
• Epilepsy 

CBD Legality

So, while many believe that CBD products fall in the category of medical cannabis and you need a prescription to buy them, possessing products with less than 0.2% THC shouldn’t be problematic.

CBD Legislation Portugal, What Does The Law Say?

In recent years, the global popularity of cannabidiol (CBD) and its associated benefits have been a significant trend in the world of:

• Health
• Wellness

CBD Global Trend

Despite the illegal status of cannabis in most countries, the same does not apply to the widely used CBD oils extracted from the plant. These oils and other CBD products are part of a more significant global trend and can be easily purchased, especially in Europe and North America.

Despite CBD’s increasing popularity, there remains significant uncertainty regarding its legal framework in Portugal and several other countries.

Hemp Cultivation Portugal

The cultivation of hemp for industrial purposes is a lawful activity in Portugal. Community law first authorized and encouraged this, which was then transposed into national law by an amendment to Regulatory Decree 61/94.

The Administrative Rule 14/2022, of 5 January, provides that:

• Hemp can only be cultivated outdoors (it is not possible to grow in greenhouses or closed spaces)
• Cultivation can only take place in an area of at least five hectares
• Transplanting of plants is not allowed
• The density of sowing can be at least 30kg per hectare

CBD Legal Status

Transporting flowering plant juices off the farm (even if they can no longer be used for industrial hemp cultivation) is forbidden, and rules have also been established for reusing opened seed packages.

From a legal point of view, CBD is in a grey area. In Portugal, the authorities classify the marketing of CBD as a prohibited activity insofar as CBD, as a substance extracted from the flowers and leaves of the cannabis plant (and not from the stalks and seeds), must be treated as a controlled substance.

CBD Food Restrictions

The plant may only be cultivated and marketed in accordance with the rules for the cultivation and marketing of controlled substances (i.e., essentially for medicinal purposes).

In ASAE’s view, using cannabinoids such as CBD, THC, cannabigerol (CBG), and cannabinol CBN in food will mean that such foods are considered unauthorized novel foods, similar to plant parts and their extracts. Thus, the commercialization of foods containing these substances is not authorized.

CBD Regulatory Status

The DGAV has also commented on this, stating that CBD has no history of consumption as a food or food ingredient in the EU before 1997. It cannot be used in food as it does not meet the Novel Foods and Food Ingredients Regulation (EU) requirements 2015-2283. Therefore, to be placed on the market, CBD will have to undergo a risk assessment by EFSA.

Uncomplicate Your Hemp Production

GrowerIQ provides cannabis growers with a comprehensive solution for managing their cultivation operations, ensuring compliance, optimizing quality, and enhancing efficiency throughout the seed-to-sale process. 

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Regulatory Authorities Of CBD In Portugal

In Portugal, legislation around cannabis and cannabinoids is organized and structured. The regulation of cannabis and cannabinoids falls under two main authorities: INFARMED and the General Directorate of Agriculture and Veterinary (DGAV). Each body has specific responsibilities depending on the use of cannabis, whether medicinal or non-medicinal. 

INFARMED: The Authority on Medicinal Cannabis

The National Authority of Medicines and Health Products is the primary regulatory authority responsible for overseeing the laws and regulations concerning cannabis and cannabinoids for medical purposes. 

As part of Portugal’s Ministry of Health, INFARMED has administrative and financial autonomy and operates under the minister’s supervision.

Medicinal Cannabis Regulation

Key responsibilities of INFARMED include:

• Authorization and supervision of all activities related to controlled substances, including the cultivation, production, distribution, and sale of cannabis-based medicines.
• Ensuring that cannabis products for medicinal purposes meet safety, quality, and efficacy standards.
  

INFARMED is the sole authority responsible for the approval and monitoring of medicinal cannabis in Portugal. They regulate the entire lifecycle of medicinal cannabis products, ensuring compliance with:

• National laws 
• International standards

DGAV: The Authority on Non-Medicinal Cannabinoids

The DGAV regulates cannabinoids used in non-medicinal products, such as food supplements containing cannabis-derived ingredients. Under the Ministry of Agriculture, DGAV plays a central role in ensuring the country’s food safety and veterinary health.

Key responsibilities of DGAV include:

• Issuing authorizations for the commercialization of food supplements containing cannabinoids.
• Implementing and evaluating food safety measures related to cannabis-based products.
• Enforcing animal protection, plant health, and veterinary health policies.

Food Supplement Oversight

The DGAV ensures that products like food supplements containing cannabis-derived ingredients meet safety and regulatory standards before they reach the market.

ASAE: The Authority on Consumer Protection 

ASAE can assist both INFARMED and DGAV in exercising their surveillance powers. ASAE is responsible for ensuring that economic activities, including commercializing cannabis products, comply with consumer safety laws.

ASAE supports both agencies in enforcing compliance with food safety, economic regulations, and the general commercialization of cannabis-derived products, helping maintain high consumer protection standards.

Use Of CBD In Cosmetics, Food Supplements, & Veterinary Foods

In Portugal, the use of CBD in cosmetics is strictly prohibited. The country’s regulatory body for cosmetics, INFARMED, considers CBD a controlled substance. The classification of CBD as a controlled substance stems from its origins in the cannabis plant, which is not entirely legal according to international conventions.  

Despite CBD’s non-psychoactive properties, INFARMED has stated in clear terms that no use of CBD in cosmetics will be permitted in Portugal.

CBD in Food Supplements: Understanding the Restrictions

Under EU regulation, CBD is considered a novel food supplement. This means it can only be legally used in food products once it receives explicit authorization from the EU. 

So far, no such approval has been granted for CBD, and the use of CBD in food supplements remains illegal in Portugal.

CBD in Veterinary Foods: What’s the Deal?

The restrictions on CBD also apply to veterinary foods. Just like with food supplements, the use of CBD in animal feed or veterinary food products is illegal in Portugal until further notice. 

The regulatory body overseeing these products, DGAV, follows the same reasoning as human food supplements: No authorization has been given for CBD in veterinary foods, and until it receives approval, it remains illegal.

EU Novel Food regulations significantly restrict CBD in food and dietary supplement applications throughout Portugal and the broader European Union. Under Regulation (EU) 2015/2283, any food product not significantly consumed in the EU before May 15, 1997 requires Novel Food authorization before being marketed as food or food ingredients. Because CBD extracts and isolates were not widely consumed in the EU prior to 1997, they fall under Novel Food requirements, creating substantial regulatory hurdles for CBD-infused food products and supplements.

The distinction between product categories is crucial for compliance. CBD isolates and full-spectrum oils sold as standalone products face Novel Food authorization requirements when marketed for oral consumption or as dietary supplements. However, CBD incorporated into topical cosmetics generally falls outside Novel Food regulations, instead governed by EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, which permits CBD in cosmetic formulations provided the products do not make therapeutic claims and meet safety standards.

Products marketed before the EU Novel Food Regulation took effect in 2019 may qualify for exemptions on a case-by-case basis, though Portuguese authorities increasingly require documentation proving pre-2019 market presence. The Novel Food authorization process itself is expensive and lengthy, often requiring extensive toxicological studies, safety assessments, and regulatory submissions that can take several years and cost hundreds of thousands of euros. This regulatory burden has created a gray area where many CBD food products technically operate outside full authorization but remain available in Portuguese and European markets pending ongoing regulatory clarification.

For commercial producers, understanding the legal distinction between “food supplement” and “cosmetic” applications is essential. Food supplements containing CBD require Novel Food authorization or documented exemption, while cosmetic products with CBD—such as topical creams, balms, and skincare formulations—are generally permitted without Novel Food authorization provided they comply with cosmetic safety and labeling regulations. Producers must navigate these complex regulatory pathways carefully, as mislabeling products or making unauthorized health claims can result in product seizures, fines, and license revocations.

Buying And Selling CBD In Portugal

Can You Buy CBD in Portugal?

Yes, CBD products containing less than 0.2% THC are freely available for purchase throughout Portugal without a prescription. Consumers and businesses can access a wide range of CBD oils, topicals, cosmetics, and other non-food products through multiple retail channels. All products must be derived from EU-approved hemp varieties and undergo laboratory testing to verify THC content compliance with the 0.2% legal threshold.

Buyers should verify that products carry proper labeling with cannabinoid content information, batch numbers, and extraction source documentation. Reputable suppliers provide third-party laboratory test results (certificates of analysis) that confirm THC levels and verify the absence of contaminants, pesticides, and heavy metals. This documentation is essential for both consumer safety and regulatory compliance.

Where to Buy CBD in Portugal?

CBD products are available from pharmacies, specialized CBD retail shops in major cities such as Lisbon and Porto, and online retailers operating within Portugal and throughout the European Union. Pharmacies typically stock CBD oils and topical products that have undergone quality verification, making them a reliable source for consumers seeking regulated products.

Specialized CBD shops offer broader product selections, including various oil concentrations, tinctures, cosmetics, and wellness products. These retailers often provide detailed product information and staff knowledgeable about different CBD formulations and applications. Online retailers—both Portuguese-based and EU-based—offer convenient access to CBD products, though buyers should verify that suppliers operate within legal frameworks and provide proper laboratory testing documentation to ensure THC compliance and product quality.

Can You Sell CBD in Portugal?

Yes, selling CBD products in Portugal is legal for properly licensed businesses that source products from authorized hemp suppliers and meet regulatory compliance requirements. Commercial CBD operations require business licensing, product testing protocols, and adherence to Portuguese commercial regulations governing retail sales and product labeling.

Businesses must source CBD products from authorized hemp cultivators or importers who can demonstrate compliance with the 0.2% THC threshold. All products entering retail channels require laboratory testing to verify cannabinoid content and confirm the absence of prohibited substances. For those exploring commercial licensing pathways, understanding how to obtain a cannabis license in Portugal provides essential context for navigating the application process and regulatory requirements.

EU Novel Food regulations apply to CBD-infused food products and dietary supplements, creating additional compliance obligations for businesses marketing these product categories. Cosmetic CBD products generally face fewer restrictions, though labeling and marketing claims must comply with EU Cosmetics Regulation standards. For licensed producers operating at scale, seed-to-sale tracking systems and batch documentation are essential compliance tools—capabilities that GrowerIQ’s cannabis management software provides to help businesses maintain regulatory compliance and streamline quality control processes.

Is Growing Hemp for CBD Legal in Portugal?

No, individuals cannot legally cultivate hemp for CBD production without proper authorization. Commercial hemp cultivation in Portugal requires agricultural licensing from the relevant authorities, with strict requirements governing approved hemp varieties, THC monitoring, and cultivation practices. Only EU-approved hemp cultivars that naturally produce less than 0.2% THC are permitted for commercial cultivation.

Licensed hemp producers must register their operations with agricultural authorities, source certified seeds from approved suppliers, and implement monitoring protocols to ensure THC levels remain within legal thresholds throughout the growing cycle. Detailed information about hemp cultivation regulations in Portugal outlines the licensing requirements, approved varieties, and compliance obligations that commercial cultivators must meet.

Hemp cultivation for CBD extraction operates under strict oversight by Portuguese agricultural and health authorities. Producers must maintain detailed records of cultivation practices, harvest data, and processing activities. For B2B producers, seed-to-sale tracking systems are not merely recommended—they are essential for demonstrating regulatory compliance, managing inventory across cultivation and processing operations, and providing the documentation required for licensing renewals and regulatory inspections. Commercial hemp operations benefit significantly from comprehensive cannabis ERP systems that integrate cultivation management, compliance tracking, and quality control documentation into unified operational platforms.

CDB Approved Medicinal Products

In Portugal, the medical cannabis program has seen significant developments with the approval of new CBD and THC-based medicinal products by INFARMED, the country’s cannabis regulator. These approvals mark an important expansion in patient care options since the legalization of medical cannabis in 2018.

Key Approved CBD and THC Medicinal Products

Tilray’s 18% THC Dried Flower First Product Approval (2021)

Tilray’s dried flower product with 18% THC and less than 1% CBD was the first medical cannabis product approved in Portugal. This product has been available since 2021 and is prescribed for specific conditions such as:

• Chronic pain
• Nausea
• Spasticity
• Glaucoma

It did not meet the needs of all patients, particularly those with conditions like epilepsy.

Tilray Oral Solution THC 5 CBD 20 New Approval (2024)

This is a CBD-dominant oral solution with a 1:4 ratio of THC to CBD. It is one of two newly approved medical cannabis oils and is intended for use in several critical areas of patient care. 

This product is already available in other markets, such as Germany, and is expected to provide a broader range of therapeutic options for patients in Portugal.

Ferraz Lynce’s CBD Dominant Oral Solutions New Approval (2024)

Portuguese pharmaceutical operator Ferraz Lynce has also received approval for a CBD-dominant oral solution. This product will be available in four versions, offering patients multiple options depending on their needs.

Hexacan’s ‘Hexa 01 Alto THC 20%’ Dried Flower New Approval (2024)

This product is a high-THC (20%) dried flower intended for vaporization. It is packaged in 10g quantities and will be prescribed for conditions such as:

• Chronic pain
• Epilepsy
• Multiple sclerosis
• Nausea and vomiting due to chemotherapy, and appetite stimulation in palliative care for patients undergoing cancer treatment or living with AIDS

Impact on Patient Care

The approval of these new products represents a significant step forward for medical cannabis patients in Portugal, providing more diverse and accessible treatment options. These developments also reflect Portugal’s commitment to expanding the availability of medical cannabis and supporting research and innovation in this field.

With these approvals, patients will have access to both THC and CBD-dominant products tailored to their specific therapeutic needs, enhancing the overall effectiveness and scope of medical cannabis treatment in the country.

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For cannabis producers and processors operating in Portugal, maintaining compliance with medicinal CBD standards requires robust quality assurance and laboratory testing protocols. GrowerIQ’s partnership with Portuguese lab LEF/Infosaúde exemplifies the integration of cultivation management systems with certified laboratory services, enabling producers to meet Infarmed’s stringent testing and documentation requirements for medicinal cannabis products.

Market Size Of CBD In Portugal

The CBD market in Portugal is experiencing steady growth, reflecting a broader global trend toward accepting and integrating CBD-infused products into daily wellness routines. By 2024, the market in Portugal is expected to generate a revenue of approximately US$27.06 million, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 0.74% from 2024 to 2029. This modest growth rate suggests that the market will reach a volume of about US$28.07 million by 2029.

CBD Market Drivers and Consumer Preferences

Portugal’s market size may seem relatively minor compared to the global market, where the United States is expected to dominate with an impressive US$2,575.00 million in revenue by 2024. The per capita revenue in Portugal is anticipated to be around US$21.34 in 2024, indicating a growing interest in CBD products among the Portuguese population.

Portugal’s CBD market is primarily driven by consumers increasingly seeking natural and holistic alternatives for health and wellness. This shift towards organic and plant-based remedies has fueled the demand for CBD across various product categories, such as:

• Oils
• Tinctures
• Edibles
• Skincare products
• Pet supplements

The diversification of these product offerings has not only expanded the consumer base but also:

• Fostered innovation
• Heightened competition among brands within the market

How CBD Legislation in Portugal is Attracting Investment

Portugal’s regulatory environment has been particularly supportive of this market growth. The country’s progressive stance on cannabis legalization, which permits the cultivation of industrial hemp with low THC levels, has created a favorable framework for the production and sale of CBD products. This has attracted domestic and international companies to the Portuguese market, further boosting its growth potential.

Portugal’s CBD market is poised for continued expansion. It is driven by consumer demand for wellness-focused products and supported by a regulatory landscape encouraging innovation and market participation.

Growing Cannabis For Medicinal Purposes In Portugal, How Does GrowerIQ Help?

Digital Recordkeeping: A Reliable Alternative to Paper

Cannabis cultivation requires precise recordkeeping to maintain compliance with regulations and ensure product quality. Digital recordkeeping is more reliable than paper, as it can be programmed to automatically:

• Track and calculate changes over time
• Minimize human errors
• Produce reliable data reports for audits

Batch Numbering: Never Lose Track of a Batch Again

GrowerIQ’s cannabis software lets you label your batches according to your numbering system. From there, you can track every move a batch makes throughout your facility. This allows for greater organization and traceability for:

• Compliance
• Quality control
• Product recalls

Seed-to-Sale Tracking: Full Life Cycle Management of Cannabis

Regulations require licensed cannabis cultivators to track every plant’s life cycle. This includes tracking the weights and yields of each plant and recording every change in status as they move through the various stages of production. GrowerIQ simplifies this process with intuitive seed-to-sale tracking tools.

Client Tracking: Documenting Sales & Distribution

Licensed cannabis businesses must comply with regulations regarding sales and distribution. This includes tracking every client’s details and purchase history. GrowerIQ’s cannabis software makes this process easy, ensuring clients are organized and documented for compliance.

Inventory Control: Keeping Organized Records of Your Products

Inventory control is another critical component of cannabis compliance. Regulations require licensed cultivators to maintain detailed records of their products, including weights, measures, and status changes, as they are:

• Moved
• Sold
• Disposed of

GrowerIQ’s cannabis inventory control features help manage these processes to ensure compliance.

Quality Management Software Functions: Ensuring Your Products Are Up to Standard

Quality management software functions help cannabis businesses identify and resolve issues with product quality to ensure compliance with regulations and quality control standards. GrowerIQ’s software has a variety of features to help licensed cannabis cultivators manage product quality, including:

• Tracking
• Tracing
• Reporting for audits and inspections

Cultivation and Monitoring Software Functions: Maintaining Optimal Conditions for Cannabis Growth

Cultivation software and monitoring tools help cannabis growers maintain optimal conditions for plant health and development. This includes tracking data on environmental conditions, such as temperature and humidity, and managing processes like irrigation and nutrient delivery. 

GrowerIQ’s cannabis cultivation software has robust tracking and reporting features to help cultivators ensure compliance with regulations.

ERP Software Functions: Integrating Cannabis Compliance Across All Business Operations

Cannabis ERP software helps licensed cannabis businesses manage compliance across all areas of their operations. This includes:

• Cultivation
• Processing
• Distribution
• Sales

GrowerIQ’s seed-to-sale software has ERP-like functions to help cannabis cultivators manage compliance across all business operations, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.

2026 Updates to Portugal’s CBD Regulations

Portugal’s CBD regulatory framework has remained stable throughout 2025 and into 2026, with no major legislative changes to the 0.2% THC threshold or hemp cultivation permissions. However, enforcement trends and quality control requirements have evolved significantly, particularly for licensed producers and commercial distributors operating in the Portuguese market.

Infarmed continues to exercise oversight authority over the cannabis and hemp sectors under Infarmed’s cannabis bylaw framework, with increased focus on Novel Food compliance and product quality verification. Regulatory inspections now emphasize laboratory testing protocols, batch documentation, and supply chain traceability for CBD products entering retail channels. Licensed producers are expected to maintain EU Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards, particularly for products intended for medicinal or therapeutic use, even when marketed as hemp-derived supplements or wellness products.

The Portuguese CBD market has experienced steady growth, with both domestic cultivation and imported products expanding to meet consumer demand. This growth has attracted heightened regulatory attention, particularly concerning mislabeled products, THC content verification, and unauthorized health claims. Producers must ensure all CBD products undergo third-party testing and carry accurate labeling that reflects cannabinoid profiles, extraction methods, and batch traceability information.

Enforcement of EU Novel Food regulations has intensified in 2026, with Portuguese authorities aligning more closely with broader European Union standards. CBD-infused foods, beverages, and dietary supplements now face stricter scrutiny, and products marketed without proper Novel Food authorization risk removal from retail channels. For commercial operators, this means clear distinction between cosmetic applications (which remain broadly permitted) and food supplement applications (which require specific Novel Food authorization or exemption documentation).

FAQs On CBD And Cannabis In Portugal

What Is The Legal Limit of THC in Portugal? 

The legal limit of THC in Portugal is 0.3%. This regulation aligns with the European Commission’s guidelines and is consistent with those of other European countries, such as Italy, where CBD laws in Italy follow a comparable framework. Following this limit, products with THC levels above 0.3% are considered illegal and can lead to criminal charges.

Are There Many CBD Stores in Big Cities?

Yes, there are many CBD stores across Portugal. The number of physical cannabis stores exceeds 100 and is distributed throughout the country, including:

• Smaller towns
• Rural areas

The largest cities, such as Lisbon, have the highest concentration of stores, with estimates of 30 or more. This number multiplies when you include online stores, but no official data confirms these figures.

How Many Portuguese Use Cannabis or CBD Products?

It is difficult to estimate how many Portuguese are using cannabis or CBD products. While there are no official figures, reports suggest that thousands of people are using different types of CBD products, including:

• Oils
• Flowers
• Edibles
• Beverages

Many consumers purchase products from cannabis stores, while others manufacture their own or rely on the illicit market.

Cannabis Usage Patterns

A survey conducted in 2021 by the Portuguese Institute of Drugs and Addictions (SICAD) found that 95% of participants used illegal cannabis, while only 19% used legal cannabis (which refers to CBD and low THC content products sold in stores). 

This suggests that most of the people using legal cannabis are simultaneously using illegal cannabis.

Is Medical Cannabis Legal in Portugal?

Medical cannabis is legal in Portugal. The country approved medical cannabis in 2018, and regulations took effect in January 2019. Patients still struggle to access suitable cannabis-based medicines. Legalization has benefited companies that produce cannabis for medicinal purposes, mainly for export.

Medical Cannabis Access

Portugal is one of the largest producers of cannabis in Europe, but only two drugs can be prescribed by doctors and found in pharmacies: 

• Sativex oral spray
• Tilray’s 18% THC flowers. 

Another important fact is that medical cannabis is not yet being taught in universities, and doctors still lack training in this field, leading to a reluctance to prescribe it. In practice, most patients act as their own doctors and still buy cannabis on the illicit market.

Uncomplicate Your Cannabis Production Today With GrowerIQ!

Cannabis growers face challenges in managing reporting, documentation, and compliance requirements due to the complexity of regulatory frameworks, evolving legal standards, and the need for accurate record-keeping in a highly regulated industry. 

At GrowerIQ, our software aims to provide cannabis growers with a comprehensive solution for:

• Managing their cultivation operations
• Ensuring compliance
• Optimizing quality
• Enhancing efficiency throughout the seed-to-sale process
• Overall uncomplicating, the production process

Software Features

GrowerIQ does this with its software, which offers a range of functionalities to assist cannabis growers, including:

• Seed-to-Sale Tracking
• Quality Management
• Cultivation Planning

GrowerIQ provides cannabis growers with a comprehensive solution for managing their:

• Cultivation operations
• Ensuring compliance
• Optimizing quality
• Enhancing efficiency throughout the seed-to-sale process

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