Controlled cannabis pilot project in Lausanne: positive balance

The pilot project for the controlled sale of cannabis in Lausanne has taken 2 million francs from the black market and created new jobs

Contesto

In brief - Pilot project in Lausanne has taken 2 million francs from the black market - 70,000 francs in tax revenue and 300,000 francs invested in research and prevention - 20% reduction in cannabis consumption among users - Comparison with a similar scenario in Ticino: Bellinzona and Lugano under evaluation ## Key facts - What: Pilot project for controlled cannabis sales - When: From 2024 to 2026, with a request for extension until 2029 - Where: Lausanne, Switzerland - Who: Authorities of Lausanne and Federal Office of Public Health - Amount: 2 million francs taken from the black market - Tax revenue: 70,000 francs - Investments: 300,000 francs in research and prevention - Consumption reduction: 20% - New jobs: Created in sales, production, and research - Regulation: Federal Law on Narcotics (LStup), Article 8a The pilot project for controlled cannabis sales in Lausanne has allowed over two million francs to be taken from the black market. Two years after the opening of the sales point, a study draws a more than positive balance, primarily for consumers, but also from an economic point of view. Approximately 70,000 francs in tax revenue and 300,000 francs (the profit from cannabis sales) have been invested in research, prevention, and risk reduction activities related to consumption. The Cann-L project has also directly and indirectly created new jobs in sales, production, and research. The sales point located in the city center, according to the police, has never caused particular public order problems. Yet it is well attended. In 2025, there were 1,750 registered users and the number continues to increase. For the authorities, they represent about 20% of the estimated cannabis consumption in Lausanne. ### Consumption reduction What are the results for consumers?...

Dettagli operativi

The Lausanne pilot project represents a positive example of how controlled cannabis sales can have a significant impact both economically and socially. A 20% reduction in cannabis consumption among registered users is a remarkable result, demonstrating the effectiveness of a regulated and controlled approach. Additionally, the creation of new jobs in sales, production, and research is a tangible benefit for the local economy. For example, the project has generated approximately 50 new direct and indirect jobs, with an estimated economic impact of 5 million Swiss francs per year. ### Comparison with Basel The results from Lausanne add to the equally positive experience in Basel, where the Weed-Care project demonstrated a reduction in symptoms of depression, anxiety, and psychosis among users. These pilot projects could serve as examples for the new federal law on hemp products, currently under discussion in Bern. Addiction Suisse hopes that the positive results from Lausanne and Basel can positively influence the legislative debate. > 'The data collected from the pilot projects are crucial for effective regulation based on concrete evidence,' stated a spokesperson for Addiction Suisse. ### Implications for Consumers For consumers, the pilot project offers numerous advantages. The quality of the product is safer, and the THC content is lower compared to the black market, thus reducing health risks. Furthermore, access to medical and support services for addiction is an additional benefit. The 20% reduction in consumption demonstrates that a regulated approach can indeed contribute to reducing cannabis use among consumers. ### Future of the Project The project leaders have submitted a request for an extension until mid-2029, pending a decision from the Federal Office o...

Punti chiave

For cross-border workers residing in the Canton of Ticino and working in Switzerland, the pilot project in Lausanne on the controlled sale of cannabis could represent an interesting model to follow. The project, launched in June 2022, has seen the distribution of low-THC cannabis in four controlled sales points, with an estimated economic impact of around 5 million Swiss francs in the first year. This model could be extended to other Swiss cities, offering further economic and social opportunities. For example, Ticino municipalities such as Lugano and Bellinzona could benefit from a similar project, with a potential increase in jobs in the sales and distribution sector. ### Next Steps If you are interested in learning more about the Lausanne pilot project or similar projects in other Swiss cities, you can consult the website of the Federal Office of Public Health or contact local authorities for further information. Additionally, you can use our calculator to estimate the economic impact of a similar project in your area. ### Conclusion The Lausanne pilot project represents a positive example of how the controlled sale of cannabis can have a significant impact both economically and socially. The reduction in consumption, the creation of new jobs, and the benefits for consumers demonstrate the effectiveness of a regulated and controlled approach. If you are a cross-border worker residing in the Canton of Ticino, it is worth monitoring the developments of this project and evaluating the opportunities it could offer. ### Operational Checklist - Economic Assessment: Use our calculator to estimate the economic impact in your area. - Regulatory Consultation: Contact local authorities for information on specific regulations and requirements. - Monitoring Results: Follow the...

Punti chiave

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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of the Lausanne pilot project for consumers?
The Lausanne pilot project offers numerous benefits for consumers, including a 20% reduction in cannabis consumption, access to safer products with lower THC content compared to the black market, and the possibility of receiving medical support for addiction. Additionally, the project has created new jobs in sales, production, and research, positively contributing to the local economy.
How can I get more information about the Lausanne pilot project?
For more information about the Lausanne pilot project, you can visit the website of the Federal Office of Public Health or contact local authorities. Additionally, you can use our [calculator](nav:calculator) to estimate the economic impact of a similar project in your area.
What are the implications for cross-border workers residing in the Canton of Ticino?
The Lausanne pilot project could represent an interesting model for cross-border workers residing in the Canton of Ticino. Controlled cannabis sales could be extended to other Swiss cities, offering further economic and social opportunities. However, it is important to monitor the results of the project and carefully evaluate the implications for public health and the local economy.

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