The Netherlands expands legal cannabis sales to 10 more towns.

The Netherlands has started a government project that allows legal cannabis sales in 10 towns. Although it is still illegal to grow cannabis, licensed shops can sell marijuana grown by 10 approved producers.

Rick Bakker from Hollandse Hoogtes, which is one of the regulated producers, explained that while weed has been sold legally for 50 years, its production was always illegal. Now, the aim is to professionalize and legalize the entire industry.

Around 80 'coffeeshops' are involved in this trial, testing if legal supply can resolve inconsistencies in the law. These shops can sell small amounts of weed legally, although large-scale production has been prohibited.

Benjamin Selma from Hollandse Hoogtes highlighted that their cannabis undergoes rigorous testing for quality and safety. The company prioritizes environmental health, powering production with solar energy and using biodegradable packaging.

This experiment will be watched and evaluated over four years to see how it impacts crime, safety, and public health. A team advised by an independent committee is assessing the controlled cannabis supply chain.