Is CBD Legal in Switzerland? 2025 Laws and Regulations Guide

CBD legal status in Switzerland

Cannabidiol (CBD) has firmly established its place in Switzerland—particularly in the form of CBD hemp flowers, oils, and cosmetics. Since 2017, the market has grown significantly following its official recognition as a substance not subject to the Swiss Narcotics Act (LStup). Unlike THC, CBD does not have psychoactive effects and is not listed as a narcotic. It is legal to use as long as the THC content remains below 1%.

🔎 According to the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH), over 15% of cannabis users in Switzerland now choose CBD products—clear evidence of its growing popularity.

However, not all CBD products are authorized in the same way. Their legality depends on their product category—flowers, oils, e-liquids, edibles, or strictly regulated medicinal preparations. Each of these segments is governed by specific regulations defined by Swissmedic and the FOPH.

To help you shop with confidence, uWeed offers a curated selection of Swiss-made CBD products that are fully compliant with current laws.

In this article, we provide a detailed guide to the 2025 legal framework in Switzerland, including permitted THC limits, legal CBD product categories, food restrictions, vape product regulations, the status of medical CBD, and more.

In Switzerland, CBD is regulated by several legal texts and government authorities. Unlike many European countries, Switzerland allows up to 1% THC, enabling a wider variety of cannabidiol products—including CBD oils, hemp flowers, and e-liquids.

Infographic showing legal classification of CBD products in Switzerland based on the 1% THC rule
Legal map of CBD in Switzerland: products grouped by legal, restricted, or prohibited status under Swiss law

🔹 Key regulations and institutions :

📜 Swiss Narcotics Act (LStup)
CBD is not considered a narcotic under the LStup, provided that the THC level remains below 1%. If the THC content exceeds this threshold, the product is classified as a prohibited substance.
➡️ Official text: LStup – Swiss Narcotics Act

Swiss Narcotics Act (LStup)

📜 Swissmedic – Regulation of therapeutic products
CBD-based medicines, such as Epidyolex, require Swissmedic approval and a medical prescription.
➡️ More info: Swissmedic – Classification of CBD Products

Swissmedic – Regulation of therapeutic products

📜 FOPH – Regulation of consumer CBD products
The Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) oversees oils, e-liquids, and cosmetics containing CBD to ensure they meet safety and compliance standards.
➡️ Regulation: FOPH – CBD Regulations in Switzerland

FOPH – Regulation of consumer CBD products

📜 FOAG – Hemp cultivation regulation

 The Federal Office for Agriculture (FOAG) manages hemp cultivation and sets standards for approved plant varieties.
➡️ Hemp cultivation info: FOAG – Hemp in Switzerland

📜 Ordinance on the Narcotics Lists (OTStup-DFI)

 This ordinance establishes the 1% THC limit for products containing CBD.
➡️ Official text: OTStup-DFI

In the context of CBD legality in Switzerland, cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychoactive cannabis compound extracted from hemp. It differs fundamentally from THC, particularly in its legal treatment and effects. The key point in CBD vs THC: key differences lies in their psychoactivity: CBD does not produce a “high,” while THC is considered a controlled substance. As long as the THC level stays below 1%, the legal status of CBD in Switzerland is clearly defined and products remain compliant with Swiss CBD law.

Infographic comparing legal status of CBD vs THC in Switzerland based on THC content
CBD vs THC in Swiss law: CBD under 1% THC is legal; THC above 1% is restricted as a narcotic

To ensure transparency and safety, the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) and Swissmedic regulate the distribution of CBD products—such as oils, flowers, cosmetics, and e-liquids, through strict legal standards that distinguish them from recreational cannabis.

Types of CBD in Switzerland: Isolate, Broad- & Full-Spectrum

The legal classification of CBD products in Switzerland depends in part on their cannabinoid spectrum—a key factor that determines how they are regulated. This is particularly relevant for CBD oils, which are categorized into three types of extract, each with distinct compositions and regulatory implications under Swiss CBD law:

CBD Isolate

Contains only pure cannabidiol with 0% THC and no other cannabinoids. As a CBD isolate, it does not produce the entourage effect, meaning the synergy between hemp compounds is absent.

 Broad-Spectrum CBD

Includes multiple cannabinoids except THC. It provides a partial entourage effect, allowing users to benefit from interactions between various natural components of the hemp plant without THC exposure.

Full-Spectrum CBD

Contains the full range of cannabinoids, including trace amounts of THC (under 1%). This type offers the entourage effect in its most complete form, enhancing the overall impact of the CBD through natural synergy with terpenes and other active compounds. Swiss regulations strictly require that full-spectrum extract products remain within the legal THC threshold.

According to Swissmedic’s 2024 report on Classification of Cannabidiol Products in Switzerland, both CBD isolate and broad-spectrum extract are permitted without restriction, while full-spectrum products must meet the 1% THC limit to remain legal. This distinction ensures full compliance with the Swiss CBD law and helps prevent any product from being reclassified as a narcotic.

History and Evolution of Swiss Hemp and CBD Legislation

The legal landscape for CBD and hemp in Switzerland has evolved significantly over the past decade. Gradual regulatory updates have helped clarify the status of cannabidiol, aligning policies with public health needs and Swiss cannabis regulations.

📌 2017 – Conditional Legalization of CBD
In 2017, the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) confirmed that CBD was not subject to the Swiss Narcotics Act (LStup) as long as its THC content remained below 1%. This decision allowed the commercialization of CBD flowers, oils, and cosmetics while clearly separating them from THC-containing recreational cannabis. The announcement, published in the CBD Regulation in Switzerland report (FOPH, 2017), marked a major shift in cannabidiol regulation.

📌 2022 – Reintroduction of Legal CBD Resins
CBD resins had been banned for several years due to their resemblance to illegal cannabis. But in August 2022, the FOPH authorized their sale again—provided they comply with the 1% THC threshold. This update, part of the Swiss Medical Cannabis Legislation (FOPH, 2022), expanded the legal CBD product range while maintaining traceability and consumer safety.

📌 2022 – Recall of Non-Compliant CBD Oils
In September 2022, Swiss authorities launched a series of product recalls after testing CBD oils with excessive THC or misleading labels. The Swiss Cantonal Chemists Association (ACCS) revealed in its 2022 CBD Oil Controls in Switzerland report that many samples failed to meet legal standards. This highlighted the importance of lab-tested CBD and strict enforcement of quality standards.

📌 2022 – Denaturation Requirement for Non-Food CBD Oils
From March 29, 2022, CBD oils classified as chemical products must be denatured to prevent oral consumption. As stated in the official directive from the Swiss Federal Administration on chemical product labelling, these oils must include bitter agents unless they’re approved as CBD food products under separate regulation.

📌 2023–2025 – Pilot Programs for Recreational Cannabis
In response to growing public debate, pilot programs were launched in Zurich, Geneva, and Basel to test a regulated recreational cannabis market. Supervised by the Federal Department of Home Affairs (FDHA), these tests—outlined in the Swiss Cannabis Pilot Project Program (FDHA, 2023)—aim to measure the health and economic impacts of controlled cannabis access. The outcomes may influence future updates to cannabidiol regulation in Switzerland.

Infographic illustrating CBD and hemp law evolution in Switzerland from 1951 to 2025
Timeline of CBD law in Switzerland: from 1951 ban to recreational cannabis pilot trials by 2025

In Switzerland, the legal status of CBD depends on its classification and use case. The key legal foundation is the 1% THC threshold, established by the Swiss Narcotics Act (LStup, RS 812.121). Products exceeding this limit are automatically reclassified as narcotics.

Here’s how CBD products are categorized under various Swiss laws:

CategoryDescriptionApplicable Law
CBD Flowers & ResinsClassified as tobacco substitutes
Tobacco Products Act (TPA, RS 817.06)
CBD Cosmetic OilsRegulated under cosmetic standards
Cosmetics Ordinance (RS 817.023.31)
CBD Chemical OilsSubject to mandatory denaturation
Chemical Products Ordinance (RS 813.11)
CBD Food Products
Covered by food laws and Novel Food regulation
Foodstuffs Ordinance (RS 817.02)
Novel Food Framework
CBD E-liquids & VapesRegulated by the e-cigarette lawE-cigarette Ordinance (RS 817.06)
CBD-Based MedicinesMust be approved by SwissmedicTherapeutic Products Act (TPA, RS 812.21)
CBD Products for AnimalsRegulated under the feed lawAnimal Feed Ordinance (RS 916.307)

The FOPH, Swissmedic and the OSAV monitor products containing cannabidiol. Any THC content in excess of 1% is prohibited without specific authorisation.

Is CBD Classified as a Drug in Switzerland?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is not treated as a narcotic under Swiss law, provided it meets all compliance requirements—including the 1% THC threshold. Within the broader scope of Swiss cannabis regulations, this classification reflects the fact that CBD does not produce psychoactive effects and carries no risk of dependency. As a result, it is excluded from the list of substances controlled by the Ordinance on Narcotics Lists (OTStup-DFI).

According to the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) and Swissmedic, CBD products remain legal as long as they stay under the THC limit. If that threshold is exceeded, however, the product is automatically reclassified as a narcotic and prohibited from sale. By comparison, many European countries enforce stricter limits—ranging from 0.2% to 0.6%—restricting the availability of broad- and full-spectrum CBD products.

Federal Law: Swiss Narcotics Ordinance (Controlled Substances List)

The OTStup-DFI, updated in 2022, states that CBD is not subject to the same restrictions as THC, as long as its THC content remains below 1%. This regulation, outlined in the Swissmedic report on the classification of cannabidiol-based products in Switzerland (2022), specifies that CBD products can be legally marketed in several forms:

  • Tobacco substitutes, such as cannabis flowers intended for smoking
  • CBD oils, often classified as denatured chemical products or cosmetics
  • Cosmetics, provided they comply with Swiss health regulations
  • Food products, subject to the strict requirements of the Foodstuffs Act and the “Novel Foods” framework

Each product category must comply with the standards set by the FOPH and Swissmedic, ensuring traceability and consumer safety.

What Is the Maximum THC Limit Allowed in Switzerland?

Switzerland enforces a 1% THC threshold for all CBD products—a notably more flexible policy compared to most EU countries. This limit plays a crucial role in differentiating non-psychoactive cannabis from intoxicating substances and reflects a regulatory focus on THC and psychoactive effects.

Maintaining THC below this threshold ensures that CBD products do not fall under the controlled substances ordinance, keeping them legal for sale and use. The Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) and Swissmedic emphasize this distinction as a foundation of the Swiss framework.

While this legal tolerance allows a broader range of cannabinoid-rich products to remain available, any batch exceeding 1% THC must be removed from the market or reclassified as a narcotic. This strict boundary protects consumers and preserves Switzerland’s clear regulatory separation between wellness products and recreational cannabis.

Regulatory Authorities and CBD Product Compliance Checks

To ensure transparency and safety, several regulatory bodies are involved in overseeing the legal status of CBD in Switzerland. The main responsibility lies with the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) and Swissmedic, who enforce limits on THC and ensure compliance with the controlled substances ordinance.

These authorities collaborate with certified labs to carry out lab testing on CBD products, verifying that they are:

  • Free of prohibited psychotropic substances
  •  Compliant with pesticide, solvent, and heavy metal safety standards
  •  Legally under the 1% THC limit

Swiss producers and resellers must provide a certificate of analysis from an ISO-accredited laboratory to confirm product safety and regulatory alignment. This certification process builds consumer trust and reinforces uWeed’s promise of verified, legally compliant CBD.

In parallel, the Swiss Cantonal Chemists Association (ACCS) regularly inspects food-grade CBD products. Their 2022 report revealed that 85% of CBD-infused edibles on the market failed to meet legal standards due to improper labelling or excessive THC—highlighting the importance of rigorous product control.

The legal status of CBD in Switzerland varies significantly depending on the product category. Each type— CBD flowers, oils, edibles, cosmetics, or animal products—is subject to specific laws and regulatory checks. This distinction is essential for understanding which items are permitted, how they’re classified, and what safety and labeling rules apply.

The Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) and Swissmedic oversee compliance across all these segments, ensuring that THC levels remain within the 1% legal threshold and that consumer safety standards are fully met.

CBD flowers and CBD hash are legal in Switzerland if they contain less than 1% THC, making them compliant under the Tobacco Products Act and treated as tobacco substitutes. This legal status is a key aspect of legal CBD flower types in Switzerland, allowing for wide availability across physical and online shops.

However, as tobacco alternatives, these products are subject to specific requirements:

  • Mandatory health warnings (e.g., “Smoking kills”)
  • Age restrictions (sale prohibited to minors)
  • Taxation and packaging compliance

The classification as legal cannabis flowers under tobacco laws means they must not be marketed for therapeutic use. Instead, they are positioned as natural aromatic products for personal well-being and legal recreational use.

At uWeed, all flower products undergo lab testing and come with full certificate of analysis, ensuring that only compliant, premium-quality strains—such as indoor, outdoor, or greenhouse CBD buds—are listed on the platform.

The Special Case of CBD Oils: Legal Status and Product Classification

In Switzerland, CBD oils are subject to strict regulation based on how they are classified. These oils must comply with specific guidelines depending on their intended use, composition, and legal framework. Choosing a safe and compliant CBD oil requires an understanding of how products are categorized under Swiss law.

Many CBD oils are sold as chemical products or aromatic oils, meaning they are not designed for ingestion and must be denatured to prevent oral use. Since March 2022, the law has required these oils to include bittering agents to avoid confusion with CBD food supplements, which remain unauthorized under current Swiss guidelines.

Other oils are marketed as cosmetics, intended exclusively for topical use or wellness applications. These must comply with the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) safety standards and cannot make therapeutic claims. The regulatory framework ensures that every CBD oil tincture on the market is accurately labelled and meets health and safety expectations.

Are CBD Oils Banned in Switzerland?

No, CBD oils are not banned in Switzerland—but their sale is subject to strict limitations. Under current law, they cannot be marketed as food supplements and must instead be classified as either cosmetic products or chemicals with mandatory denaturation. This classification protects public health and ensures that oils meet legal and safety requirements before entering the market.

Consumers looking for a safe and compliant CBD oil should always check for lab testing, traceability, and legal labelling standards.

CBD Food Products: Current Regulations in Switzerland

CBD food products face some of the most restrictive regulations in Switzerland. These items—including hemp infusions, candies, and drinks—are covered by Novel Food Regulation and cannot be sold without official authorization. This restriction is based on the fact that CBD lacks a significant history of consumption in the EU before 1997.

According to Swiss law, every CBD-infused food must undergo safety evaluation and approval before being legally placed on the market. At the time of writing, no applications have been approved. This makes Switzerland one of the strictest markets for CBD edibles in Europe.

Novel Food Regulation and Its Application to CBD

Under the Novel Food Regulation, any food containing cannabinoids must be proven safe through rigorous scientific review. The Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO) applies this rule to CBD, meaning that edible products require prior authorization—even for items like herbal teas or drinks.

In this context, what might seem like a basic CBD hemp tea becomes a legally complex product requiring careful compliance.

THC Limits in CBD-Infused Foods and Drinks

In Switzerland, CBD hemp teas and THC limits are tightly regulated under federal food laws. To remain compliant, all CBD-infused foods and beverages must contain less than 2 mg of THC per kilogram of product. This low threshold is significantly stricter than for other CBD formats and aims to eliminate any possibility of psychoactive effects.

Products such as CBD herbal teas, infusions, and candies are tested for THC content in accredited laboratories. Any item that exceeds the limit is banned from sale. Notably, CBD gummies are currently prohibited in Switzerland, as they are considered edibles containing cannabinoids and pose a risk of accidental ingestion, particularly by children.

CBD E-Liquids and Vapes: Regulatory Overview

The sale of CBD e-liquids and vapes is legal in Switzerland as long as they comply with the national THC limit of 1%. Regulations adopted in 2024 introduced new restrictions, including volume limits per cartridge and taxes per millilitre. The updated legal framework applies to all vaping formats, including the expanding segment of CBD disposable devices.

In response to growing demand, many users are turning to vaporisation as an efficient delivery method. Those looking to discover our CBD vape range will find legally compliant options that meet federal safety standards and avoid nicotine.

CBD Topicals and Cosmetics: Legal Classification

In Switzerland, topical CBD products are allowed under specific regulatory conditions that define them as cosmetic items rather than therapeutic goods. These products must be formulated using extracts from hemp seeds or leaves, and not from the cannabis flower itself.

Manufacturers must also ensure that their formulations comply with labelling and safety requirements. As the category grows, more users are seeking high-quality skincare solutions and turn to curated online platforms to explore our CBD cosmetics collection legally and confidently.

CBD-Based Medicines and Therapeutic Use

Although CBD is often associated with wellness and natural health, its potential wellness benefits of CBD must be approached cautiously under Swiss law. When used in a medical context, CBD requires approval from Swissmedic and must be prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider. Claims about therapeutic use must be supported by clinical data and follow the Therapeutic Products Act.

Products marketed in this segment are strictly controlled, separating general wellness items from registered pharmaceuticals.

Epidyolex and Swissmedic-Approved CBD Medications

Among the few CBD-based medicines legally available in Switzerland, Epidyolex stands out as the most prominent. It contains pure cannabidiol and is approved for the treatment of rare and severe forms of epilepsy. Its use is tightly restricted, requires a prescription, and is not reimbursed under standard health insurance plans.

This product is one of the rare examples of CBD passing through all regulatory stages to become an authorized medicinal treatment.

Pharmacy-Prepared CBD Formulas in Switzerland

Some Swiss pharmacies are permitted to prepare individual CBD formulations upon medical request. These products must follow all Swissmedic and FOPH rules concerning compounded medicines.

For consumers seeking personalised treatment plans, it is possible to buy CBD from Swiss pharmacies that offer such preparations—always under prescription and with traceable documentation.

CBD Products for Animals: Rules and Limitations

The Swiss market allows CBD use in pet products, but under very strict legal conditions. To comply with national law, these items must contain less than 1% THC and avoid substances harmful to animals, such as certain terpenes that can be toxic to cats. Authorities have issued clear CBD for pets: safety guidance to help manufacturers and consumers ensure animal well-being while staying within legal limits.

Additionally, CBD products for pets must not target livestock and cannot include medical claims unless formally authorized. Pet owners are strongly encouraged to consult a veterinarian before using any cannabidiol-based product.

Switzerland’s legal framework for CBD is clearly defined, but how it applies to everyday life often raises questions. Can you grow your own CBD plants? Where are legal CBD products sold? What happens if you travel abroad with CBD in your luggage?

This section answers the most common questions about how the country’s laws impact the use, purchase, and possession of legal CBD in Switzerland.

Can You Legally Grow CBD in Switzerland?

Cultivating hemp that contains CBD is legal in Switzerland under specific conditions. The plant must be certified as industrial hemp and must not exceed the legal THC threshold of 1%. While private individuals can grow for personal use, those seeking to operate commercially must ensure that their varieties are listed on the official catalogue and meet federal regulations.

Although a cultivation licence is not required for personal cultivation, professional growers must document their crops and follow environmental and agricultural safety guidelines defined by the Federal Office for Agriculture (OFAG).

Legal CBD products are available across Switzerland through various retail channels: specialised CBD shops, pharmacies, vape stores, and certified online platforms. For convenience and broader selection, many consumers choose to order 100% legal Swiss CBD online, ensuring they access compliant products that meet national standards on THC content, labelling, and product categorisation.

All CBD products sold in Switzerland must undergo laboratory analysis to verify their THC content and overall compliance. These tests are conducted by accredited labs and help detect any contaminants such as pesticides or heavy metals.

Each product must come with a valid certificate of analysis, which ensures both legal conformity and consumer transparency. This certificate is essential for traceability and is routinely requested by regulatory authorities during spot checks.

Travelling with Swiss CBD: Cross-Border and Customs Rules

Transporting CBD within Switzerland poses no issue if the product complies with local law. However, the situation becomes more complex when travelling abroad with CBD, as legal THC limits and product restrictions vary across countries.

For example, France and Germany enforce lower thresholds (0.3% and 0.2%, respectively), which may cause products legal in Switzerland to be seized at the border. It’s always best to check local import laws before carrying CBD across international borders.

Visual comparison of legal THC thresholds in Switzerland and the EU
Snapshot of legal THC limits across Switzerland and Europe in 2025

In public areas where smoking is permitted, the use of smokable hemp flowers is allowed under the same rules that govern tobacco use. However, smoking is prohibited in locations such as public transport, government buildings, and many workplaces.

Despite its legality, CBD flower can be mistaken for illegal cannabis due to its similar appearance and smell. To avoid misunderstandings, it’s advisable to carry product packaging or documentation showing THC content.

Is Driving Legal After Taking CBD in Switzerland?

Driving after using legal CBD products is permitted in Switzerland, but caution is advised. While CBD is not intoxicating, many products—especially full-spectrum extracts—contain trace amounts of THC.

Under Switzerland’s zero-tolerance drug-driving policy, any detectable level of THC in a blood test can result in sanctions. To reduce risk, those concerned about driving after using CBD should avoid operating vehicles shortly after consumption.

Drug Testing and CBD: Legal and Workplace Impact

Although CBD itself is not screened in standard drug tests, trace THC found in full-spectrum products can cause positive results. This can be problematic in sectors that enforce regular testing such as transport, security, and healthcare.

To avoid complications related to CBD and workplace drug tests, users should choose products labelled as THC-free, such as CBD isolate or broad-spectrum formulations verified by third-party lab reports.

Swiss vs Neighbouring Countries’ CBD Laws (France, Germany, Italy)

The Swiss legal framework for CBD is more permissive than in many EU countries. With a 1% THC limit, Switzerland allows a broader variety of CBD products than France (0.3%), Germany (0.2%), or Italy (0.6%). However, these differences create legal complications for travellers and importers.

Efforts to achieve EU equivalence are ongoing but far from complete. Until then, CBD users must remain aware of each country’s specific rules to avoid legal issues when crossing borders.

Can I Buy Swiss CBD from France Legally?

Buying CBD from Switzerland while residing in France is possible, but several conditions apply. The product must respect the French legal limit of 0.3% THC and be shipped by a company that complies with EU consumer laws.

For consumers asking can I buy CBD in Switzerland, the answer is yes—but only if the product meets the destination country’s legal standards. Customs authorities may seize items that exceed THC limits, even if they are legal in Switzerland.

Future of CBD Regulation in Switzerland

Switzerland’s CBD market continues to evolve, and regulatory authorities are actively assessing potential updates. New bills, pilot programs, and legal harmonisation efforts with the EU are shaping the future landscape for cannabidiol in the country.

As the legal context changes, it’s important for producers, retailers, and consumers to stay informed about ongoing developments that could impact CBD’s legal status and product availability in Switzerland.

Ongoing Bills and Parliamentary Debates on CBD

The Swiss Federal Council and Parliament are reviewing various proposals aimed at clarifying and adapting the national CBD framework. Discussions include the possible re-evaluation of the 1% THC limit and expanding pilot cannabis sales beyond cities like Zurich, Basel, and Geneva.

Lawmakers are also exploring better definitions for CBD-infused foods, particularly in response to current Novel Food restrictions that limit product availability. These debates are driven by a desire to balance public health, market innovation, and regulatory control.

Harmonisation with EU Standards: Challenges and Outlook

While Switzerland maintains a more permissive stance on THC content than most EU countries, discussions around harmonisation with EU standards are ongoing. The European Court of Justice ruled in 2020 that CBD is not a narcotic, opening the door for regulatory alignment—though each member state still applies its own rules.

For Swiss producers, aligning with EU legislation could facilitate exports but may also require adjustments to product formulations and THC thresholds. Authorities are carefully evaluating these trade-offs before making formal changes.

Conclusion: Switzerland’s Clear but Changing Legal CBD Framework

Switzerland currently offers one of the most clearly defined and liberal legal frameworks for CBD in Europe, anchored by its 1% THC threshold and product-specific classification system. From smokable hemp flowers to cosmetics, vapes, and oils, each item must meet strict labelling and compliance criteria enforced by Swissmedic and the Federal Office of Public Health.

But while the current system is well structured, it remains in motion. Pilot cannabis projects, proposed legal revisions, and EU alignment discussions signal that future changes are likely. For now, Switzerland remains a leader in CBD regulation, but staying informed and compliant is essential as the legal landscape continues to evolve.

Official Sources and Legal References on CBD in Switzerland

To better understand Switzerland’s cannabis legislation, several official resources provide direct access to the relevant laws and regulatory guidelines. These documents, published by agencies such as Swissmedic, the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH), and other Swiss authorities, govern the production, sale, and use of products containing cannabidiol.

🔹 General Regulatory Framework for CBD in Switzerland

Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) – The FOPH is the main authority responsible for regulating CBD and THC levels below 1% in Switzerland. It defines the legal conditions for the sale, production, and use of cannabidiol-based products, and monitors their compliance with public health standards.
➡️ CBD regulation in Switzerland – FOPH
➡️ Medical cannabis legislation – FOPH

Swissmedic – Switzerland’s medical regulatory authority, in charge of evaluating and monitoring therapeutic products containing CBD and overseeing their distribution on the Swiss market.
➡️ Classification of cannabidiol-based products – Swissmedic

Federal Narcotics Act (LStup) – This legislation governs substances classified as narcotics, including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and its psychoactive effects. It also sets the legal framework for cannabis use, CBD product manufacturing, and medicinal cannabis regulations.
➡️ Full legal text – Federal Narcotics Act (LStup)

🔹 Regulations for Specific CBD Product Categories

Ordinance on Narcotics Lists (OTStup-DFI) – Defines the specific rules governing THC levels below 1% and the classification of CBD flowers as tobacco substitutes.
➡️ OTStup-DFI – CBD Provisions

Federal Office for Agriculture (OFAG) – Regulates hemp cultivation and the production of cannabidiol products derived from the hemp plant.
➡️ Hemp cultivation guidelines – OFAG

Ordinance on Foodstuffs (Novel Food) – Regulates the use of CBD in food products, including hemp teas, and sets specific restrictions for chemical-based cannabidiol formulations.
➡️ FSVO – Novel Food and CBD

Swiss Association of Cantonal Chemists (ACCS) – This body reported in 2022 that 85% of CBD food products tested in Switzerland failed to meet legal standards.
➡️ ACCS Report on CBD-labelled food products – A troubling overview

🔹 Specific Topics: Transport, Use and Testing

Swiss Customs Administration (AFD) – Responsible for controlling imported and exported CBD products, including when travelling abroad with CBD.
➡️ CBD customs regulations

Federal Roads Office (OFROU) – Regulates driving after CBD use, highlighting the risks linked to detectable THC in drug and roadside tests.
➡️ OFROU – Cannabis use and driving

These resources provide a comprehensive overview of the legal and official landscape surrounding CBD in Switzerland and its potential future developments.

Loic Aubonney