Experimental phase of the ‘Closed Coffee Shop Chain Experiment’ (weed experiment) starts on April 7th
On April 7, 2025, the final phase of the ‘Closed Coffee Shop Chain Experiment’ will begin. In this phase, coffee shops in the participating municipalities will be permitted to sell only regulated cannabis. However, more time appears to be needed to improve hash production and procurement by coffee shops. As a result, the enforcement of the ban on illegal hash sales will be temporarily suspended in participating coffee shops. This gives growers additional time to refine their production. Ministers Van Weel (Justice and Security) and Karremans (Youth, Prevention, and Sport) updated the Dutch House of Representatives about this development today.
Purpose of the ‘Closed Coffee Shop Chain Experiment’
Currently, the Dutch government tolerates the sale of cannabis (weed and hash) in coffee shops to consumers. This means that coffee shops can sell weed and hash under strict conditions, without facing criminal prosecution. However, the cultivation of cannabis is illegal in the Netherlands, meaning the origin and composition of the cannabis being sold is unclear. The purpose of this experiment is to explore whether a closed and regulated chain of cannabis production, distribution and sale is feasible.
Temporary suspension of ban on illegal hash
Mayors in participating municipalities will not enforce the ban on illegal hash sales in coffee shops for the first two months. Reason for this is that currently, it is uncertain whether there will be enough hash to consistently supply all the coffee shops. Adequate supply is crucial, as shortages could lead to illegal street sales. Therefore, growers are being given more time to improve their hash production, and coffee shop owners will have the opportunity to expand their regulated hash supply. Enforcement will resume on June 10, 2025, when only regulated cannabis will be sold in coffee shops.
Research
During the experiment, a team of independent researchers will monitor the effects of the trial on public health, crime, safety, and nuisance. These research findings could inform future decision-making on cannabis policy in the Netherlands.
Originally published at https://www.government.nl/latest/news/2025/04/02/experimental-phase-of-the-closed-coffee-shop-chain-experiment-weed-experiment-starts-on-april-7th
