Declaration of controversy on cannabis experiment

The well-known closed coffeeshop chain experiment (‘cannabis experiment’) declared controversial by the Schoof Cabinet. What does this mean for entrepreneurs and investors?

What does the controversial declaration mean for the cannabis experiment?

On June 25, 2025, the Dutch House of Representatives published a list of topics declared controversial, including the cannabis experiment.

As a result, the outgoing (caretaker) Schoof cabinet is no longer allowed to make any decisions regarding the cannabis experiment until after the general elections on October 29, 2025, when a new cabinet is expected to take office. The aim is to prevent the caretaker government from making politically sensitive decisions during this transitional period.

Why is this important for entrepreneurs and investors?

The controversial declaration prevents the current cabinet from halting or altering the course of the experiment. In effect, the cannabis experiment is temporarily shielded from political interference, particularly from parties within the Schoof cabinet that may oppose the initiative.

This also creates room to gather further experience and data. In the long run, this will enhance the reliability and credibility of the cannabis experiment, especially regarding its long-term effects.

For now, the most recent decision regarding the experiment remains that of the Minister of Justice, David van Weel. This decision allows participating coffee shops to continue selling ‘backdoor hash’ until September 1, 2025. After this date, in our opinion only legally cultivated cannabis products may be sold. This transitional measure was introduced due to ongoing supply issues with legal cannabis. Discussions between the municipalities and the national government are ongoing to improve delivery timelines.

Want to know more?

Do you have questions about the cannabis experiment? Or do you have another legal question in the area of cannabis law? Feel free to contact attorney John Wolfs, who has many years of experience in cannabis law, among other things.