Switzerland’s largest city, Zurich, has given the green light to a trial which will allow for the controlled sale of cannabis, after the project was delayed last year following objections from local health officials. The project - called Zuri Can - Cannabis with Responsibility - will study the impact of controlled cannabis on the health of consumers. 

Sale of cannabis in Zurich to begin in August 2023

The registration period to take part in the project is now taking place, but the actual sale of cannabis won’t happen until August 2023 - when the first government-approved crop is expected to be harvested. A total of 21 supply points across the city will be authorised to sell cannabis to those taking part in the programme. 

The programme will accept a maximum of 2.100 participants and follows on from a trial that took place in Basel in 2022, where 400 participants were studied. 

Study will last 3,5 years

Only users over the age of 18 will be able to take part in the study, which will last a total of 3,5 years. Pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as professional drivers, will not be allowed to take part in the project at all. 

Cannabis will be sold out of a number of pre-approved supply points that will include social clubs, where you will be able to smoke, as well as pharmacies. Participants will be given a special ID that will allow them to consume cannabis in their own private spaces such as at home or at special social clubs. However, consuming cannabis outside of these spaces could land you in hot water with the Swiss police.