Cannabis Culture Around the World: A Global Perspective
Cannabis has been a part of human culture for centuries, with its uses ranging from medicinal and spiritual to recreational and industrial. As legalization spreads across the globe, cannabis culture continues to evolve, reflecting the unique traditions, laws, and societal attitudes of each region. This blog explores how cannabis is perceived, consumed, and celebrated in different parts of the world, offering a fascinating global perspective.
1. North America: The Epicenter of Legalization
United States
The United States has become a global leader in cannabis legalization, with 23 states and Washington D.C. allowing recreational use as of 2025. Cannabis culture here is diverse, with a focus on innovation and wellness. Dispensaries offer a wide variety of products, from edibles and tinctures to high-quality flower and concentrates. Events like the Cannabis Cup and 4/20 celebrations in cities like Denver and San Francisco highlight the vibrant cannabis community.
Canada
Canada made history in 2018 as the first G7 nation to legalize recreational cannabis nationwide. Cannabis culture in Canada emphasizes quality and sustainability, with many producers focusing on organic and eco-friendly practices. The country’s liberal approach has fostered a thriving cannabis tourism industry, particularly in provinces like British Columbia and Ontario.
2. Europe: Tradition Meets Modernization
The Netherlands
The Netherlands has long been associated with cannabis, thanks to its famous coffee shops in Amsterdam. While technically not fully legalized, the country’s tolerant policies allow the sale and consumption of cannabis in regulated establishments. Amsterdam remains a hotspot for cannabis tourism, attracting enthusiasts from around the world.
Germany
Germany is emerging as a key player in Europe’s cannabis industry. In 2024, the country began implementing plans to legalize recreational use, building on its robust medical cannabis program. German cannabis culture is heavily regulated, emphasizing safety and compliance, but it is expected to grow significantly in the coming years.
Spain
Spain’s cannabis culture thrives in its private cannabis clubs, particularly in Barcelona. While cannabis is decriminalized for personal use, its public consumption remains prohibited. These clubs offer a unique, community-focused approach to cannabis consumption, blending social interaction with high-quality products.
3. Asia: Ancient Roots and Modern Challenges
India
Cannabis has deep spiritual and cultural roots in India, where it has been used for centuries in religious rituals and Ayurvedic medicine. Bhang, a cannabis-infused drink, is a traditional offering during festivals like Holi. Despite its historical significance, modern cannabis laws in India are restrictive, with limited exceptions for traditional uses.
Thailand
Thailand has recently emerged as a leader in Asia’s cannabis scene, becoming the first country in the region to decriminalize cannabis in 2022. The country’s focus is on medical cannabis, but its progressive stance has also encouraged the growth of cannabis tourism, with dispensaries and cafes popping up in cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
Japan and South Korea
In contrast to Thailand, countries like Japan and South Korea maintain strict anti-cannabis laws. Despite this, there is a growing interest in CBD products, which are legal and marketed for their health benefits.
4. South America: A Blend of Tradition and Progress
Uruguay
Uruguay was the first country in the world to fully legalize cannabis in 2013. The government regulates cultivation, distribution, and sales, ensuring affordability and accessibility for its citizens. Cannabis culture in Uruguay is laid-back, with a focus on personal cultivation and community sharing.
Colombia
Colombia’s cannabis culture is rooted in its rich agricultural history. While recreational use remains illegal, the country has embraced medical cannabis and is a leading exporter of cannabis products. The lush climate and fertile soil make Colombia ideal for large-scale cultivation.
5. Africa: Emerging Markets and Traditional Uses
South Africa
South Africa’s cannabis culture received a boost in 2018 when the Constitutional Court decriminalized private use and cultivation. Known locally as “dagga,” cannabis has been used traditionally by various communities for medicinal and spiritual purposes. The country is now exploring opportunities in the global cannabis market.
Morocco
Morocco is one of the world’s largest producers of hashish, with the Rif Mountains serving as a hub for cannabis cultivation. While recreational use is illegal, the production of cannabis for export and medicinal purposes has been legalized, reflecting a shift in policy.
6. Oceania: Small Markets with Big Potential
Australia
Australia’s cannabis culture is growing, with medical cannabis legalized nationwide and recreational use decriminalized in some territories, such as the Australian Capital Territory. The country’s focus is on research and development, with an emphasis on medical applications.
New Zealand:Cannabis Culture Around the World: A Global Perspective
New Zealand’s cannabis culture remains relatively conservative, with a 2020 referendum narrowly rejecting legalization. However, medical cannabis is legal, and public attitudes are gradually shifting toward more progressive policies.
7. The Middle East: Conservative Yet Evolving
Israel
Israel is a global leader in cannabis research, with a well-established medical cannabis program. While recreational use remains illegal, the country’s advancements in cannabis science have influenced policies worldwide. Israeli cannabis culture is centered on health and innovation.
Lebanon:Cannabis Culture Around the World: A Global Perspective
Lebanon legalized the cultivation of cannabis for medical and industrial purposes in 2020, recognizing its potential as an economic driver. The country has a long history of producing high-quality hashish, particularly in the Bekaa Valley.
