AGENDA TOPICS
Topics and themes to explore the current state of play and future outlook for the German adult-use and medical cannabis markets.
Cannabis Associations and the Commercial Opportunity
The regulatory framework surrounding cannabis associations in Germany presents both challenges and opportunities. With a cap of 500 members per association and a stipulation of only one cultivation association per 6,000 residents, the potential for commercial activity is somewhat restricted.
While constrained by these regulations, what is the market opportunity here? Software providers and compliance services, seed suppliers, and those offering specialised cultivation equipment and member CRM systems have a strong chance to thrive. Which companies will effectively navigate this complicated landscape? Traditional medical players like DEMECAN, TILRAY, and AURORA are also poised to enter the recreational market, leveraging their experience with clones and seeds to capitalise on new opportunities.
This panel will look at the many facets of this new sector; including the regional and federal state differences which complicate it, requiring a tailored approach for each market, and the opportunity to drive innovation in other areas such as home delivery or mobile consumption solutions.
The Home Cultivation Market: Cannabis Horticulture & Production
Home cultivation regulations in Germany are particularly stringent, allowing no more than three plants per household at a time. This limitation might seem restrictive, but it also opens up a burgeoning market for home cultivation equipment and seeds.
Might companies that can provide cost-effective and efficient solutions for home growers could see significant growth? As the home grow market booms, could there be opportunities for collaboration between equipment manufacturers, seed producers, and tech companies offering solutions to optimise home cultivation?
Looking at comparisons to Canada's experience, where similar regulations initially created a surge in demand for horticultural supplies and seeds, this panel looks at the German market potential and which companies could drive its growth.
The Next Phase: Pillar 2 and Future Outlook
The evolution of Germany's cannabis market hinges on the development of Pillar 2, which may proceed through the scientific clause, allowing for early experimentation and data gathering. Alternatively, stakeholders might have to wait for new regulations, which could be influenced by the upcoming 2025 elections.
The election results will likely play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Pillar 2, determining whether the market expands rapidly or remains cautious in its growth. This uncertainty provides a dynamic environment for businesses, with those able to anticipate and adapt to regulatory changes positioned to benefit the most.
This panel will discuss what Pillar 2 might look like, as well as how its various connotations might help or hinder the rapid expansion of the German cannabis market.
Medical Cannabis: The Cornerstone OF Domestic Growth
Telemedicine has seen a significant boom in Germany, a trend that shows no signs of slowing down. Key players in this space are expanding their offerings, making it easier for patients to access medical cannabis.
The landscape of imports is also shifting, with questions about whether Germany will see an increase or decrease in imported cannabis products. Just how big is the potential growth for domestic cultivation? Can it compete with high-quality, low-cost imports from Canada and Portugal?
The ability of German medical products to compete on the international stage will be a key area of focus moving forward.This panel will look at how the medical market and future trade dynamic will shape the regional - and global - landscape.
Market Dynamics: Consolidation & Innovation
The German cannabis market is entering a phase of consolidation, with expectations of increased acquisitions and vertical integration. As companies seek to strengthen their positions, we could also see a rise in potential listings and IPOs.
The evolving market dynamics will likely lead to a more mature and competitive industry, where only the strongest and most innovative companies survive.
Meanwhile, larger international players are rapidly finding their footing in the lucrative German market, but will the country’s homegrown cannabis businesses be able to compete with these giants? This panel of experts will look at how the key market players will fare.
Medical Products & Pricing
The removal of restrictions on product requirements, which previously limited the competitiveness of German cannabis products, is expected to lead to significant changes in the market.
German products, now free to develop without stringent constraints, could see improvements in quality and cannabinoid profiles, potentially rivalling Canadian imports.
Patient demand is also shifting, with a growing preference for balanced and high-CBD products over the traditionally sought-after high-THC options. Understanding these evolving product trends will be crucial for companies aiming to stay ahead in the competitive German market.