Hemp is already legal in Malta for industrial and nutritional purposes, provided the product contains no more than 0.2 % THC and is produced under a licensed scheme. The government plans to overhaul the regulatory framework in 2026, potentially raising the THC ceiling, simplifying licensing, and aligning Malta’s rules with the latest EU hemp directives. These changes aim to boost domestic cultivation, attract foreign investment, and create a clearer pathway for food, cosmetic and textile applications.
Current Legal Status of Hemp in Malta
Since 2017 Malta has permitted the cultivation of Cannabis sativa L. varieties that meet the 0.2 % THC threshold. Licences are issued by the Department of Agricultural Policy, and growers must register each field, maintain a traceability system, and submit annual reports. Hemp seeds, oil and fibre can be sold freely, while any product intended for human consumption must carry a food‑safety certification. The law also bans the sale of raw flower for recreational use.
What to Expect in 2026
The Maltese Parliament is set to adopt the EU Hemp Act 2024 amendments in early 2026. Anticipated reforms include:
- Raising the THC limit from 0.2 % to 0.3 % for certified varieties, matching most EU states.
- Introducing a streamlined, online licence portal that reduces processing time from 90 days to 30 days.
- Allowing co‑planting of hemp with other crops under a “mixed‑use” scheme, encouraging crop rotation.
- Creating a national hemp research fund to support breeding programs and value‑added processing.
These steps are designed to expand Malta’s hemp acreage from the current 150 hectares to an estimated 600 hectares by 2030.
Impact on Farmers and Industry
The revised framework will lower entry barriers for small‑scale farmers, who can now apply for micro‑licences covering up to 5 hectares. Larger agribusinesses may benefit from tax incentives targeting export‑oriented hemp products. The government also plans joint‑venture grants with EU research institutions, fostering innovation in biodegradable composites and nutraceuticals.
Key Considerations for Investors
- Compliance – All operations must integrate the mandatory seed‑to‑sale tracking software.
- Market Demand – The EU’s demand for sustainable textiles and plant‑based proteins is projected to grow 12 % annually.
- Risk Management – Adjusting to the new THC threshold will require re‑testing of existing cultivars.
- Funding – Access to EU Horizon Europe grants becomes easier once Malta’s national scheme is aligned with EU standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What THC level is allowed for hemp grown in Malta today?
The current legal limit is 0.2 % THC on a dry‑weight basis for all cultivated varieties.
Can Maltese farmers sell hemp flower for recreational use?
No. Only industrial parts such as seeds, oil, fibre and non‑psychoactive extracts may be marketed. Recreational sale of flower remains prohibited.
When will the new licensing portal become operational?
The online system is slated for launch in the first quarter of 2026, coinciding with the legislative changes.
Are there any EU subsidies available for Maltese hemp producers?
Yes. Once Malta’s regulations align with the EU Hemp Act, growers can apply for the Common Agricultural Policy’s eco‑scheme and the Horizon Europe research fund.
How will the THC increase to 0.3 % affect existing hemp crops?
Cultivars already certified at 0.2 % will need re‑validation through a lab test. Most modern EU varieties are bred to stay below 0.3 %, so the transition should be smooth for compliant growers.