Germany’s Coalition: No Changes To Cannabis Reform
In our latest Trade to Black podcast for Wednesday, April 9, 2025, host Shadd Dales and co-host Anthony Varrell discuss the recent announcement out of Germany, where the coalition government confirmed it will not reverse the CanG adult-use cannabis law. Joining the show is Dr. Julian Wichmann, CEO and co-founder of Bloomwell Group, the largest medical cannabis marketplace in Germany. Plus, Don Murphy joins from Washington, D.C. to update us on the SAFE Banking Act and what the U.S. industry must do to secure lasting reform.
Kicking off with the news from Germany: Germany’s coalition government has confirmed that it will uphold its existing cannabis law, a decision that stabilizes the country’s growing medical market. Dr. Julian Wichmann, co-founder of Bloomwell Group, explains the implications of this decision.
Often compared to the “Amazon of cannabis,” Bloomwell’s Wichmann says he has seen prescriptions surge over 1,000% since KanG brought legalization of cannabis in 2023. This decision reinforces Germany’s role as a global leader in cannabis reform—a key signal for cannabis investors and companies focused on international cannabis markets.
Germany’s end-to-end digital model links patients to doctors and pharmacies, making access to cannabis more efficient and affordable. Prices have dropped significantly—from €20 to €7 per gram—making legal cannabis cheaper than the illicit market. Wichmann believes that continued data collection and political compromise will support the medical sector’s ongoing expansion. Although the coalition government is not focused on recreational use, the outlook for medical remains strong.
Next, political advocate Don Murphy returns to weigh in on frustrations with US cannabis lobbying efforts. He criticizes the industry’s absence at a hemp hearing in Washington, D.C., where he was one of only a few in attendance. Murphy remains bullish on reform under the current administration but calls for greater accountability and visibility from cannabis businesses and advocates on Capitol Hill.
The conversation shifts toward political strategy ahead of the 2025 election season. Murphy suggests Republicans have an opportunity to support cannabis reform but warns that industry silence and lack of GOP engagement may cost them. Hear his take on things when you tune in.
