The federal government's drug commissioner, Burkhard Blienert (SPD), is calling for a debate on an upper limit for the psychoactive substance THC before cannabis is legalized in Germany.
“THC levels have tripled on average over the last few years.
A joint from the 70s can no longer be compared to today's," Blienert told the "Welt am Sonntag".
One must "seriously discuss" whether a THC upper limit for cannabis recreational use should be introduced in the course of legalization.
According to Blienert, opponents of an upper limit argue that this will not curb the black market.
Proponents cited the risks of potent cannabis in particular.
“I think both arguments are understandable.
We'll see where we end up at the end of the process," the drug commissioner said.
The Federal Chamber of Psychotherapists had recently spoken out in favor of a THC upper limit.
The Ampel parties had agreed in the coalition agreement to introduce a "controlled sale of cannabis to adults for recreational purposes in licensed shops".
A bill is expected to be presented by the end of the year.