A Comparative Analysis on Vaping Regulations Around the World
A lot of societal changes are underway as we continue to go further into the 21st century. One major change that’s taking place amongst multiple countries is the shifting perception of cannabis. Since Uruguay was the first country in modern times to legalize recreational cannabis use in December 2013, we have seen multiple countries decriminalize or legalize medicinal and/or recreational use.
With the legalization of cannabis, we have also witnessed a boom in the industry; there are numerous ways to consume it. One popular method of consumption is weed vapes. Because these vapes have higher amounts of THC than pure flower, there may be differing regulations in different countries on their production, consumption, and purchase.
Uruguay
As stated, Uruguay became the first country to legalize recreational cannabis for adults aged 18 or over. If adults would like to use or buy any products, they can grow it at home, join a cannabis social club (CSC), or buy it from a licensed pharmacy (similar to dispensaries in other countries).
What is noticeable about Uruguay is that the government focuses mostly on regulating flower. Other products such as vapes and concentrates are not allowed to be sold. This is due to a THC cap that the government has. Flower that exceeds a THC content of 9% is not allowed to be sold at pharmacies; this rule does not apply to cannabis clubs or plants grown at home. Because weed vapes and cartridges are made to have a high THC percentage, they are not sold at pharmacies. They might be only accessible at a CSC.
Furthermore, non-citizens, such as tourists, are not allowed to legally purchase any cannabis products in Uruguay.
Canada
In June 2018, the Canadian government passed the Cannabis Act and it went into effect in October of that same year. This made Canada the second country to legalize recreational cannabis use nationwide.
Canada allows the production and sale of weed vapes and cartridges. Producers cannot put any additives in the vapes that are not necessary to maintain the quality and shelf life of the product. Nicotine, caffeine, and ethanol alcohol are not permitted in these vapes. They also must undergo testing for contaminants and other harmful substances, including vitamin E acetate.
Additionally, weed vapes and cartridges must be in plain, child-resistant packaging. It must also have the standardized cannabis symbol on the packaging. This is to deter children from using these products.
Although cannabis and cannabis vapes are legal in all 10 provinces and 3 territories, there may be some differing rules and regulations depending on where you are.
In some provinces, like Alberta, you only need to be 18 years old to purchase cannabis. Other ones, like Ontario and Nova Scotia require patrons to be 19 years of age. In Québec, you must be 21 years old or older.
The provinces of Newfoundland, Labrador, and Québec used to not allow the sale and purchase of weed vapes. In 2022, Newfoundland and Labrador eased restrictions. By fall of 2025, Québecers will be able to purchase disposable weed pens and cartridges in their province legally.
United States
In the United States, cannabis is still federally illegal. You are not allowed to cross state lines with cannabis, even if you are moving between states where it is legal. It is also listed as Schedule I substance, meaning that it has no accepted medical usage and has a high potential for drug abuse and addiction. This may depend on what state or territory you live in.
Around half of the states, two territories, and the District of Columbia have all legalized cannabis for recreational use. A number of states are in the running to become the 25th state to legalize cannabis recreationally. 39 states have approved marijuana for medical use.
Regulation of weed comes down to the state level. There are many different nuances between different states. This makes the United States somewhat similar to Canada, as Canadian provinces also have slight differences in laws.
In states like New York, you are only allowed to produce and purchase cannabis products made in that state. So, if you purchase a weed cartridge, the weed was grown in New York State and the oil was made in New York as well. However, accessories like heady glasses and bongs are not subject to this,
New York also has differing laws around the state. In New York City, you are not allowed to smoke marijuana in flower or vape form on beaches and public parks. But, in other parts of the state, this may be permitted.
On the other hand, Texas just passed a bill to legalize weed vapes for medical marijuana patients in February. This makes Texas similar to places like Québec, where users are having to travel to different states or provinces for vape products. Now, these governments realize their popularity and want to capitalize on it.
Germany
In February 2024, Germany passed their Cannabis Act. Adults over the age of 18 are allowed to have 25 grams of cannabis on their person, and 50 grams at the home. They are able to cultivate three plants at home or join a CSC. Currently, there are no stores, pharmacies, or dispensaries where you can purchase cannabis.
Similarly to Uruguay, there is no strict legislation on concentrates or vapes. Although the law prohibits the production of concentrates and vapes, there is not much prohibiting the possession or use of them.
Additionally, you must be a German citizen or long term resident (6 months or more) in order to lawfully possess cannabis or join a CSC.
Differing Laws
As our attitudes change towards marijuana, so do our laws. Many national and local governments are catching up with this change, and the legislature is starting to reflect that. However, newer and different products such as vapes, edibles, and concentrates may be subject to different regulations or may be banned outright. Vapes are a special point of contention due to their high THC percentages and ease of consumption. Before visiting any place that’s new, it’s best to research their cannabis vape policies and regulations.
