New Study Validates Malta’s Cannabis Regulation Model: Regulation Works

New research conducted by the Authority for the Responsible Use of Cannabis (ARUC) in collaboration with the University of Malta (UoM) has revealed a stark safety gap between illicit and…

New research conducted by the Authority for the Responsible Use of Cannabis (ARUC) in collaboration with the University of Malta (UoM) has revealed a stark safety gap between illicit and regulated cannabis in Malta – with illegal products found to contain significantly high levels of pesticides.

The study forms part of a Memorandum of Understanding signed in February 2025 to strengthen scientific research and testing in the field of cannabis regulation.

Researchers were granted access to two sets of samples: cannabis seized through criminal proceedings and cannabis supplied by licensed Cannabis Harm Reduction Associations (CHRAs).

A total of 24 cannabis samples were analysed – 12 illicit and 12 regulated. The results were unequivocal. Five of the twelve illicit samples were contaminated with pesticide residues, all detected at significantly elevated levels. By contrast, none of the regulated samples showed any detectable pesticide contamination.

Pesticides are chemicals designed to disrupt biological systems. Exposure has been linked in scientific literature to neurological harm, respiratory complications and other adverse health effects. Where cultivation takes place without oversight, there are no controls on what substances are used or in what quantities, effectively leaving consumers exposed to hidden risks.

The findings provide concrete evidence that Malta’s harm-reduction framework is delivering on its public health objectives. Prevention remains central, with the safest option being not to consume, but the study confirms that regulation significantly reduces risks for adults who choose to do so.

The message from the data is clear: regulated cannabis protects consumers, while the illicit market puts them at risk.

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