Análisis de los resultados de los proyectos piloto sobre cannabis en ciudades suizas

In several Swiss cities and municipalities, the implementation of pilot trials to gather insights into the regulation of cannabis is continuing. The pilot trials are being conducted based on the experimental article introduced in 2021 in the Federal Narcotics Act and the associated ordinance. According to the latest figures from June 2025, around 10 400 adults are participating in the seven ongoing pilot trials. This corresponds to slightly less than five percent of the people who, according to the Federal Statistical Office, reported having consumed cannabis in the last month in 2022 (around 220 000 people). Different sales models are being tested in pharmacies, in specialized cannabis shops (some simulating a for-profit sales model and others that are not-for-profit), in associations ("social clubs"), and in the Drug Information Center (DIZ) of the City of Zurich, which all provide a controlled access to cannabis products. The data available up to July 2025 shows that participants in the pilot trials are generally satisfied with the product quality, as well as the advice and information provided. So far, the pilot trials have also proceeded without any notable incidents or negative effects on health or public order. Some of the trials report improvements in mental well-being, which is attributed to the elimination of procurement stress and the reduction of stigmatization. For the majority of participants, legal outlets are now the main source of supply. After just one to two years, a large proportion of participants – in both non-profit and for-profit models – appear to be turning away from the illegal market, which is becoming less important for their supply. Smoking products with a high THC content remain the most popular. However, interest in a broader range of products with new product categories (vaporizers, e-liquids, edibles) and products with lower THC content is increasing, and in some cases, changes towards lower-risk forms of consumption are observable. According to initial evaluations of the first 12 months of study participation, the average monthly amount of THC purchased per study participant remains relatively stable. Sales staff at all points of sale have been trained on issues relating to consumption and addiction. In their interactions with consumers, the non-profit models place a particular focus on prevention, while the forprofit models tend to emphasize the personal responsibility of study participants in areas such as the use of medical advice and prevention. Discussions with international experts from fields such as public health, criminology, psychology, and market regulation confirm the uniqueness and potential of the Swiss approach. Findings from other countries underscores the importance of a strict regulation to introduce a non-commercial system, clear guidelines for packaging and advertising, and coherent governance at the national level if public and individual health is to be protected effectively. These findings provide important guidance for the debate on a possible regulation of cannabis in Switzerland that would combine public health, safety, and youth protection.