UK Government Considers Raising THC Limit in Industrial Hemp
The UK Government has accepted a recommendation from the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD) to raise the allowable THC level in industrial hemp from 0.2% to 0.3%. While this change is not yet enshrined in law and will require further legislation and parliamentary approval, it signals a potential shift in policy that could benefit UK hemp growers and processors.
What This Means
Industrial hemp is defined primarily by its low tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content—the psychoactive compound in cannabis. Currently, UK law restricts hemp crops to a maximum THC concentration of 0.2%, consistent with historical European standards.
The proposed increase to 0.3% aligns the UK more closely with countries such as Switzerland, Canada, and parts of the European Union, which permit slightly higher THC levels in industrial hemp. This adjustment could:
Expand the range of cultivars available to UK farmers, including higher-yielding or disease-resistant varieties that were previously excluded
Improve fibre and seed quality for industrial applications such as textiles, building materials, bioplastics, and animal feed
Enhance competitiveness of the UK hemp sector in international markets
Why the Change Matters
For UK farmers, the 0.2% THC cap has long limited choice and flexibility. Some high-performing industrial hemp varieties naturally produce slightly higher THC levels—levels that are still far below those required for psychoactive effects. Raising the limit to 0.3% would allow these varieties to be legally cultivated, potentially increasing yields and profitability.
For processors and manufacturers, a slightly higher THC threshold could simplify sourcing, improve crop uniformity, and reduce the risk of crops being rejected due to minor deviations in THC content caused by environmental factors or genetics.
Still Subject to Legislation
It is important to note that this change is not yet law. The UK Government must introduce legislation, and it remains subject to parliamentary procedures before it can take effect. Until then, the 0.2% limit remains legally binding, and farmers must continue to ensure their crops comply.
The British Hemp Alliance will continue to monitor developments closely and provide guidance to farmers and industry members once the new limits are legally confirmed.
Raising the THC threshold is a small but significant step toward modernising UK hemp regulations and supporting the sector’s growth. Alongside other reforms, such as improvements to licensing, processing infrastructure, and CBD market clarity, this change could help unlock the full potential of industrial hemp in the UK.
By aligning UK rules with international standards, growers, processors, and innovators can have greater confidence in cultivating and investing in hemp for a variety of sustainable applications.
