Ban on HHC cannabinoids in Germany from June 14, 2024

UPDATE 26.06.2024:

The new version of the NpSG has just been published in the Federal Law Gazette. The ban comes into force tomorrow. According to the explanations in the draft bill, hexahydrocannabinol(HHC) and derivatives derived from it(HHC-AC, HHC-H and HHC-P) will be covered, among other things.

This list is not exhaustive. Accordingly, there is currently still legal uncertainty as to which other synthetic cannabinoids could be included. In this context, we are still urgently awaiting relevant assessments from chemists and toxicologists.

UPDATE 17.06.2024:

Unfortunately, we have no good news. The bill to ban HHC has been signed and the new law will come into force within the next two weeks. This means that HHC and its derivatives will soon be banned. We know that many of you are disappointed. Stay tuned, we will keep you updated on the next steps and possible alternatives!

Introduction

From June 14, 2024, a new regulation will come into force in Germany banning the sale, trade and possession of hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) and its derivatives. This decision was taken by the Federal Ministry of Health in order to curb the spread and abuse of new psychoactive substances (NPS) and protect public health. HHC, a semi-synthetic cannabinoid that has similar psychoactive effects to THC, has become increasingly popular in recent years. Due to its health risks and the lack of long-term studies on its effects, a strict ban has been adopted to protect public health and facilitate law enforcement.

Background information on HHC

What is HHC?

HHC, or hexahydrocannabinol, is a semi-synthetic cannabinoid produced by the hydrogenation of THC or other cannabinoids. It was first scientifically described in the 1940s, but has only gained attention in recent years. HHC is often marketed as a legal substitute for THC and comes in various forms, including flowers, vapes and oils. The psychoactive effects of HHC are similar to THC, but can vary in intensity. Due to this similarity and the legal gray area in which HHC has existed to date, it has been viewed by many users as a legal alternative to THC. However, there have been few studies on the long-term effects of HHC, leading to uncertainties and potential health risks.

Current legal situation in Europe

In Europe, the legal status of HHC varies considerably. Some countries such as the Netherlands and Spain have a more liberal stance and allow the sale of HHC, while other countries such as Sweden and Austria have already banned HHC. In Germany, HHC was previously in a legal gray area, which is now closed by the new regulation. These different regulations reflect the uncertainties and ongoing debates about the safety and health effects of HHC. However, the trend shows that more and more countries are introducing stricter regulations or complete bans on HHC and similar substances.

Details of the new regulation

Extension of the substance groups in the NpSG

The new ordinance expands the existing substance groups of the New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG) to include new variants of synthetic cannabinoids such as HHC. This extension ensures that all potentially dangerous new substances that have similar effects to already regulated NPS are covered by law. This prevents manufacturers from creating new, unregulated psychoactive substances through minor chemical modifications. The substance groups are updated on the basis of the latest scientific findings and in close cooperation with experts and law enforcement authorities. This is to ensure that the law is always up to date and can effectively combat the misuse of new substances.

Effects on trade and possession

When the regulation comes into force on June 14, 2024, the trade and possession of HHC will become illegal in Germany. This affects all HHC products currently on the market, including flowers, vapes and oils. Dealers and consumers who violate this ban will face criminal prosecution. This measure aims to minimize the abuse and potential health risks posed by HHC. The ban will also curb the black market for HHC products as law enforcement agencies will now have clear guidelines to effectively tackle the illegal trade.

Which HHC derivatives are affected?

Here is a list of the main HHC derivatives covered by the ban:

• HHC-AC: An acetate derivative of HHC that is notable for its stronger psychoactive effects. It is often used in vapes and oils and is popular with users due to its intense effects.
• HHC-O: Also known as HHC-O-acetate, another strong derivative of HHC. It is characterized by a prolonged effect and is often used in edibles.
• HHC-P: A more potent derivative known for its more intense effects. HHC-P is particularly popular among experienced users looking for a stronger alternative to regular HHC.
• HHC-H: A derivative with an extended carbon skeleton that has a stronger and longer-lasting effect. HHC-H is often sold in concentrated forms and offers a particularly strong psychoactive experience.

These derivatives are particularly popular in the scene and are often consumed in the form of vapes and edibles. They will all be banned from June 14, 2024 and may no longer be traded or possessed. The ban aims to stop the spread of these potentially dangerous substances and protect public health.

Reasons for the ban

Protection of public health

The main objective of the regulation is to protect public health. HHC and its derivatives pose significant health risks, including the risk of dependence, mental disorders and serious side effects. As the long-term effects of HHC are still largely unknown, the regulation ensures that no untested and potentially dangerous substances are available on the market. This precautionary measure is particularly important to protect the population from unforeseeable damage to health. The regulation is based on the latest scientific findings and the experience of other countries that have already taken similar measures.

The inclusion of HHC in the NpSG will make law enforcement considerably easier. Customs and police authorities can now take more effective action against the illegal trade in HHC. Before the ordinance, many traders operated in a legal gray area, which made consistent prosecution difficult. With the new law, the authorities have clear guidelines that enable them to effectively control and restrict the trade, distribution and consumption of HHC. This will help to curb the black market for HHC products and improve public safety.

Conclusion

From June 14, 2024, the handling of HHC and its derivatives will be strictly regulated in Germany. This ban is part of a broader trend in Europe, where several countries have already taken similar measures against HHC. It is important to be aware of the current legal requirements in order to avoid legal consequences. The new regulations are designed to protect public health and prevent the misuse of HHC. The regulation ensures that Germany remains at the cutting edge of scientific knowledge and can take effective action against the misuse of new psychoactive substances.