Health Canada is reviewing CBD compliance requirements in Canada, exploring a new regulatory pathway for non-prescription cannabidiol (CBD) health products. This public consultation, open from March 7, 2025, to June 5, 2025, could introduce major changes to how CBD products are classified, licensed, and sold under federal regulations.
If these proposals are implemented, businesses operating in the cannabis and CBD space may face new compliance measures, licensing updates, and revised product formulation requirements. Understanding the implications early will help companies navigate upcoming regulatory expectations and maintain legal operations.
It is currently unclear whether all CBD products will be classified as natural health products or only those making specific health claims. This distinction is critical, and the outcome could significantly impact the cannabis industry.
If all CBD products are brought under the NHP framework, manufacturers may find themselves competing with major natural health product larger, well-established natural health product companies. Retailers, such as dispensaries, could also face changes, as CBD products are currently sold outside the medical patient framework. This is why it’s important that current industry players take part in the consultation and make their voices heard.
Health Canada is outlining several potential changes to CBD compliance requirements in Canada:
- Expand CBD into the NHP framework – Classify CBD as a medicinal ingredient in natural health products (NHPs) rather than require a prescription.
- Introduce new licensing considerations – Require businesses to adjust their licensing approach if CBD shifts from prescription-only status.
- Regulate veterinary CBD products – Allow CBD for veterinary use under non-prescription veterinary drug regulations.
- Align cannabis and health product regulations – Amend the Cannabis Act and the Food and Drugs Act to support consistent CBD oversight.
- Reduce compliance burdens – Remove cannabis drug and research licensing requirements for businesses dealing exclusively with CBD health products.
For businesses that already hold cannabis-related licenses, these updates could impact their regulatory obligations and product portfolio.
How these changes impact cannabis industry businesses
For companies in the CBD and cannabis industry, these regulatory shifts could affect licensing, compliance, and market access. Businesses should prepare for:
- Updated licensing requirements – If CBD is integrated into the NHP framework, companies may need to obtain additional approvals to continue operations.
- Stricter compliance expectations – Health Canada may introduce new safety, efficacy, and quality requirements for CBD health products.
- Changes to marketing and labeling – Stronger advertising, packaging, and disclosure regulations may be required for CBD products sold without a prescription.
- Potential trade restrictions – Canada’s international treaty obligations could influence CBD export/import policies for businesses with global supply chains.
Who should provide input?
Health Canada is looking for feedback from:
- Licensed cannabis processors and retailers
- CBD product manufacturers and distributors
- Health professionals, including veterinarians
- Cannabis industry consultants and compliance experts
- Indigenous cannabis businesses and advocacy groups
- Consumer organizations and advocacy groups
- Researchers and industry stakeholders
If your business deals with CBD product development, licensing, or compliance, participating in this consultation is critical to shaping the future of the industry.
How to submit feedback
The public consultation runs from March 7, 2025, to June 5, 2025. To take part in the consultation, businesses and industry professionals should:
- Review the Discussion Paper – Read Towards a Pathway for Health Products Containing Cannabidiol for an overview of the proposed framework.
- Consider the discussion questions – Health Canada seeks input on CBD classification, licensing obligations, and regulatory measures.
- Submit feedback before June 5, 2025 – Responses can be shared via the online feedback form or emailed to nnhpd.consultation-dpsnso@hc-sc.gc.ca.
All feedback will be reviewed as part of Health Canada’s regulatory decision-making process.
How businesses can prepare for regulatory updates
With CBD compliance requirements in Canada under review, businesses should assess how these changes may impact their licensing and product approvals. Key actions include:
- Evaluate licensing status – Businesses should review current licensing agreements and determine if new authorizations will be needed.
- Update compliance protocols – Companies may need to adjust product safety, efficacy testing, and ingredient disclosure requirements.
- Align formulation strategies – Businesses planning to develop new CBD health products should align with evolving NHP compliance frameworks.
The consultation period is an opportunity for industry professionals, license holders, and cannabis compliance experts to help shape the future of CBD regulation in Canada.
For more insights on CBD compliance requirements in Canada, visit Cannabis License Experts.
