The cbd market - Italy

1.1 Definition and presentation

CBD, sometimes called "Cannabis Light," is short for cannabidiol, a molecule extracted from hemp. Unlike the THC molecule, also found in the plant, CBD does not have a narcotic effect and is therefore mostly consumed for medicinal purposes. Cannabis in illicit drug form generally contains 15 percent THC. CBD can be consumed in several ways:

• Sublingual
• Inhalation
• By ingestion
• Topical or transdermal application

Available in pharmacies, pure-players have also specialized in this area. Supermarkets, tobacco stores and specialty cosmetic stores also sell CBD products. Consuming CBD in low doses has relaxing effects. It calms, reduces stress, facilitates sleep and has an anti-inflammatory effect.

The global cannabidiol market is growing rapidly, driven by increasing government tolerance of CBD consumption in addition to the plant's healing properties. The annual growth rate is estimated at 21.2 percent through 2028.

In Italy, CBD consumption is legal if the THC content is less than 0.6 percent. Italy is one of the largest consumers of light cannabis in Europe, just behind France and Denmark. One in three people in Italy has used cannabis in the past.

The Covid 19 pandemic has transformed the light cannabis sector. A 30 percent increase in use was observed between March and April 2020. In addition, while the two main selling points were physical stores for 49% of CBD purchases and websites for 48%, tobacconists reached 10% during the pandemic.