Switzerland’s largest cannabis study has entered its second year—and early results indicate a turning point in consumer behavior. Launched in 2024, the Zurich-based pilot allows up to 7,500 participants to purchase locally grown, legal cannabis products—including edibles like THC-infused pralines—through licensed outlets. To date, 4,500 individuals have enrolled.
Backed by the Swiss Cannabis Research Association and the ETH Zurich’s KOF economic research center, the five-year study is designed to assess the social and economic impacts of cannabis legalization. Dr. Thilo Beck, Co-Chief Psychiatrist at the Arud Center for Addiction Medicine, is one of the project’s lead researchers.
Legal Access Puts Pressure on the Illicit Market
“Nearly 90% of participants are now purchasing from legal dispensaries,” Beck explains. “The black market is already feeling the pressure.” While 50% of users still supplement with illegal cannabis—often citing higher THC levels or different formats—many are slowly transitioning to regulated supply.
Notably, 60% of participants express dissatisfaction with the black market, citing poor quality, unreliable availability, and inconsistent pricing.
“If we outperform the black market on those three fronts—quality, access, and price—consumers will naturally shift toward legal channels,” Beck asserts.
Cannabis Edibles and Vape Products Encourage Safer Use
The legal program doesn’t just offer joints. Participants can purchase a wide range of cannabis forms, including edibles and vape cartridges—an essential move for public health, Beck argues. “Smoking cannabis is the most harmful form of consumption. Offering less harmful formats is a game-changer.”
Stigma Reduction and Access to Support
Legalization is also fostering de-stigmatization. “Under prohibition, users face moral and legal condemnation, which leads to stress and isolation,” Beck says. “A legal system enables open dialogue, education, and access to support services.”
But full normalization, he warns, isn’t the goal: “Cannabis shouldn’t be available 24/7 in every corner store. Access must be controlled, professional, and embedded in expert consultation.”
Lessons for Other Markets
The Zurich trial is being closely watched by policymakers and businesses alike, especially ahead of Switzerland’s broader cannabis law reform. The study’s phased, data-driven approach could serve as a blueprint for other European markets, especially those wary of the U.S. experience—where commercialization and advertising sparked concerns about youth consumption and black market persistence.
“We must find a balance: a system that offers safe access without encouraging overuse,” Beck concludes.
As Zurich continues recruiting for the remaining 3,000 participant slots, the study underscores one clear message: smart, regulated access to cannabis is not only possible—but already reshaping consumer behavior.
The Article was orginal published here: https://www.nzz.ch/zuerich/der-schwarzmarkt-geraet-unter-druck-zuercher-cannabis-studie-liefert-erste-ergebnisse-ld.1885205
