Legal Aspects of Cannabis Seeds

Legal Regulations in the EU

The cultivation of hemp for fiber purposes is regulated by variety and seed laws in the EU and Austria. There are specific hemp varieties whose cultivation is permitted [1].

Import Regulations
The import of hemp seeds from third countries is subject to certain regulations, such as import certificates. These regulations vary by country [2].

Regulations in the USA
In the USA, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulates the import of all plants and seeds for planting purposes to ensure safe agricultural trade. This includes hemp seeds [3].

Labeling Requirements in the USA
All seeds sold in the USA must be properly labeled to identify the quality of the seeds. The American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) provides further information [4].

Inspections at Import
Hemp seed shipments may be inspected upon arrival at the first port of entry by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to ensure compliance with USDA regulations [5].

Usage as Food
Certain hemp seeds or hemp seed products may be used as food. Specific, sometimes unique, rules must be adhered to [6].

• AGES - Informations on hemp
• CBP - Importing hemp seeds and hemp plants into the United States
• USDA - Hemp Production Program Questions and Answers
• FAO - Government Regulation on certain conditions for importing hemp
• USDA - Importation of Hemp Seeds
• MPI - A guide to Hemp seed as food