Legally grown Canadian cannabis floods European market

Cannabis legalized in Canada under former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is now entering the European market in record quantities, according to an investigation by The Telegraph. Belgian law enforcement agencies are reportedly struggling to cope with the influx, and local residents fear increased activity from drug cartels.

The port of Antwerp in Belgium seized 32 tons of cannabis last year, a staggering 500% increase compared to 2024. Criminal organizations are actively using European ports to smuggle the drug, with shipments originating from Canadian cities including Vancouver, Montreal, Halifax, and St. John.

The surge in cannabis imports highlights a significant challenge for European authorities attempting to regulate drug trafficking and manage the consequences of Canada's legalization policy. The scale of the seizures suggests a well-established smuggling network operating between Canada and Europe.