From the CTPS Flax and Hemp Section

At its meeting on 24 January 2024, the CTPS Flax and Hemp Section proposed the registration of one oilseed flax variety under the “yellow seeds” category and two new fibre flax varieties with good levels of total fibre content.

In addition to evaluating hemp varieties for ‘fibre’ and ‘seed’ use, the French industry asked the CTPS to register hemp varieties to produce cannabinoids, in particular CBD (cannabidiol) and CBG (cannabigerol). The section validated proposals for a VCUS study protocol and technical registration regulations for hemp varieties intended to produce various cannabinoids, while complying with regulations requiring THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) content of less than 0.3%.

The section was also briefed on the regulatory framework for therapeutic cannabis. The trial, which was due to end in March 2023, has been extended by one year. Therapeutic cannabis has been granted “temporary status” for five years, pending a decision on marketing authorisation by the European authorities (Article 78 of Act no. 2023-1250).

Finally, the section approved the continuation of an organic agriculture trial in the spring oilseed flax network and its inclusion in the quotations for new varieties in the same way as a conventional trial.