In a powerful statement, the Association Française des Producteurs de Cannabinoïdes (AFPC) announced that the French National Assembly has voted to remove Article 23 from the 2026 Finance Bill (PLF 2026). This article had raised serious concerns within the hemp sector, as it risked equating hemp with tobacco — an alarming and misleading comparison for a plant that plays a vital role in sustainable agriculture, innovation, health, and economic development.
As AFPC shared:
“A major step forward has been taken, driven by the commitment of thousands of women and men who refuse to see hemp treated as tobacco. But let us remain clear-eyed: the battle is not yet won. For this decision to be final, the amended text still needs to be approved by the National Assembly in its final vote, and the Senate must not reintroduce Article 23 during its review. AFPC will remain present, active, and determined at every stage, carrying the voice of the entire sector — from the fields to the distribution networks, from artisans to processors. Hemp is not tobacco. It is an industry of the future: innovative, sustainable, and deeply rooted in our territories.”
Source: AFPC LinkedIn post
Why This Matters for Europe’s Hemp Industry
This development is much more than a national issue. France is one of the key players in European hemp production, and any legal precedent set there could influence regulations in other EU countries.
The removal of Article 23 — if confirmed — sends a strong message:
- Hemp is being recognized for what it truly is: an important agricultural and industrial resource
- The voices of farmers, producers, researchers, and advocates are finally being heard
- The industry is moving in the right direction toward fair, science-based, and sustainable regulation
For the broader European hemp sector, this is an encouraging signal that responsible cultivation, innovation, and economic contribution are gaining formal recognition at a governmental level.
Standing Together for the Future of Hemp
At CBD Seed Europe, we fully support the work of AFPC and all organizations fighting for a transparent, fair, and progressive legal framework for hemp and cannabinoids.
Our mission has always been to provide:
- EU-certified seeds
- Legally compliant genetics
- Stable, high-quality strains
- Support to farmers across Europe
We firmly believe that hemp is not only a business — it is part of a sustainable future for agriculture, wellness, construction, textiles, and environmental solutions.
We stand in solidarity with AFPC and every professional working to protect, develop, and legitimize this powerful industry.
Together, we will continue to grow.
