The Cannabis Market Pulse (Sept 22–28, 2025)

The global cannabis sector experienced a surge of activity this past week, including policy reforms, business deals, scientific breakthroughs, and changing public attitudes. From labor disruptions and market growth in Canada to tax reforms and product recalls in the United States, as well as international regulatory shake-ups and economic investments, these developments showcase an industry in rapid change.

Below is a curated list of the top 10 cannabis news stories for each region—Canada, the United States, and international—published between September 22 and 28, 2025. Each story provides unique insights into how cannabis markets are evolving, regulations are adjusting, and opportunities are emerging worldwide.

Canada

·      BCGEU strike expands to cannabis warehouse (StratCann, Sept. 22, 2025) – The BC Government and Service Employees’ Union (BCGEU) widened its strike on Sept. 22 to include the province’s central cannabis distribution warehouse—pickets at the B.C. The Liquor Distribution Branch’s cannabis facility forced a shutdown of central delivery, prompting concerns about retail shortages. This followed stalled contract talks and represents one of the most significant actions in the cannabis sector in BC’s history.

·      Pegasus Mercantile to acquire Independent Retailers Alliance (StratCann, Sept. 25, 2025) – Vancouver investment firm Pegasus Mercantile announced on Sept. 25 that it will acquire Ontario’s Independent Retailers Alliance (IRA), which operates roughly 75 Canna Cabana and Local dispensaries. The deal, closing on Oct. 15, will expand Pegasus’s presence into Ontario. Pegasus CEO Ferris Bulte said the acquisition will establish a significant presence for the company in Canada’s largest cannabis market, as IRA’s retailers become part of Pegasus’s portfolio.

·      Hamilton retailer allowed to recall witnesses in grievance (StratCann, Sept. 24, 2025) – An arbitrator in Ontario sided with a Hamilton cannabis retailer on Sept. 24, allowing it to recall previously terminated employees as witnesses in a wrongful-dismissal grievance. The case involved a Canna Cabana manager who fired an employee for off-duty psilocybin use. By permitting new testimony, the arbitrator highlighted the complex labor issues in cannabis retail, although the dismissal was ultimately upheld.

·      B.C. producers shift to direct delivery amid strike (StratCann, Sept. 23, 2025) – With the Sept. 22 strike halting the central distribution, many B.C. cannabis growers and retailers began arranging direct-to-store deliveries. A BC Craft Growers Guild spokesperson explained that small producers are preparing trucks to deliver their inventory directly to private retailers, thereby bypassing the closed provincial hub. Retailers are also ready to manage shortages by ordering extra supplies from Alberta. The strategy aims to mitigate supply disruptions caused by the warehouse shutdown.

·      Three cannabis businesses hit Globe and Mail’s growth list (StratCann, Sept. 26, 2025). The Globe and Mail’s Sept. 25 “Top Growing Companies” list included three Canadian cannabis firms: Ayurcann (licensed producer, Montreal), Avant Brands (edibles/oils, Toronto), and High Tide (cannabis retailer, Alberta). All showed rapid revenue growth in 2024. The recognition highlights an improving business outlook in Canada’s cannabis industry as sales recover. Industry analysts noted that as the market matures, leading companies are seeing financial gains that earn them a spot among the country’s fastest-growing businesses.

·      BCGEU strike hits distribution centres, affecting cannabis supply (Global News, Sept. 23, 2025) – On Sept. 23, 2025, BCGEU picketers moved onto B.C.’s liquor and cannabis distribution centres—the walkout at the B.C. The Liquor Distribution Branch meant that cannabis shipments (arriving from Calgary and Alberta) were blocked. Retailers were warned to limit customer purchases as supplies dwindle. Government officials said contingency plans would limit daily pot sales to cope. The union’s action came after workers failed to reach a new contract with the government for liquor and cannabis staff.

·      Regina health alert after fentanyl found in illicit cannabis (CJME, Sept. 23, 2025) – Saskatchewan health authorities issued a public overdose alert on Sept. 23, 2025, after lab tests detected fentanyl and benzodiazepines in a seized cannabis sample. The warning (active until Sept. 30) cautioned that illegal cannabis on the street may be laced. Officials urged residents to avoid consuming black-market cannabis. Fortunately, no overdoses were reported; the alert serves as a public health notice to highlight the risks of unregulated cannabis tainted with deadly opioids.

·      London building returned after unlicensed dispensary raid (106.9 The X, Sept. 22, 2025) – A London, Ontario, court ordered on Sept. 22, 2025, that a downtown building be returned to its owner after an illegal cannabis shop was shut down there. The building had housed a licensed restaurant but was unlawfully subleased to an unlicensed retailer (Natural Unity), which was raided by police. In this case, the Superior Court agreed the landlord’s property should be released from the Crown, citing the retailer’s unauthorized use. The ruling underscores the enforcement of cannabis leasing laws in Canada.

·      High Tide to open three new Canna Cabana dispensaries (Cannabis Business Times, Sept. 24, 2025) – On Sept. 24, 2025, High Tide Inc. announced it will open three new Canna Cabana stores in Canada. Two new locations in the Toronto area (North York and Etobicoke) and one in Fort McMurray, Alberta, are set to launch in late September. These expansions will bring High Tide’s total retail count to 210 stores nationwide. CEO Mark Zekulin said the openings reflect continued demand and strengthen High Tide’s presence in key Ontario and Alberta markets.

·      UdeM researchers pilot cannabis-use app for psychosis patients (Université de Montréal, Sept. 23, 2025) – Montreal’s CHU Sainte-Justine hospital research center is testing a smartphone app to help young adults with first-episode psychosis manage cannabis use. The CHAMPS app (Cannabis Harm Management Program) provides education and tracking to encourage safer habits and reduce relapse risk. Funded by an $ 800,000 federal grant, the pilot study shows that early patients find the app acceptable. Researchers hope the tool will support mental health by moderating cannabis consumption among vulnerable individuals.

United States

·      California law delays cannabis excise tax hike (CalMatters, Sept. 23, 2025) – California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed legislation on Sept. 23, 2025, rolling back the state’s cannabis excise tax from 19% to 15% until 2028. Lawmakers argued that the temporary tax cut would help legal dispensaries compete against illicit sales. Under the law, the excise tax reverts to 15% and will only increase by 1% per year thereafter (instead of jumping to 28%). The goal is to strengthen the regulated market’s market share while maintaining reasonable consumer prices.

·      Virginia governor candidates clash over cannabis policy (Cannabis Business Times, Sept. 22, 2025) – In Virginia’s upcoming Nov. 2025 election, the two major party nominees differ sharply on cannabis sales. Democrat Abigail Spanberger has pledged to let commercial cannabis stores open, breaking the legal logjam (Gov. Youngkin vetoed sales in 2023). Republican Winsome Earle-Sears opposes new dispensaries, backing Youngkin’s stance, though both agree on decriminalizing possession. Spanberger argues legal sales would generate jobs and tax revenue, while Earle-Sears calls for caution, reflecting the party divide on expanding the market.

·      OHSU awarded $6.7M NIH grant to study cannabis in pregnancy (OHSU, Sept. 27, 2025) – Oregon Health & Science University researchers received a $6.7 million NIH/NIDA grant (Sept. 27, 2025) to study effects of cannabis use during pregnancy in a primate model. The five-year project will investigate how THC impacts maternal, placental, and fetal health in the context of HIV infection. Scientists aim to understand cannabis-related risks for women with HIV, as cannabis use rises among people with chronic conditions. Insights from this study could inform guidelines for cannabis use in vulnerable pregnant populations.

·      Minnesota approves first cannabis event license (Marijuana Moment, Sept. 25, 2025) – Minnesota regulators granted the state’s first-ever permit on Sept. 25, 2025, for a cannabis festival. The Legacy Cup, a music and cannabis-themed festival, will now be allowed to sell and permit on-site adult cannabis consumption at the Oct. 2025 event. Producers partnered with two licensed dispensaries to sell products at the festival (headlined by artists like Killer Mike). This pilot license marks a new chapter in Minnesota’s market, coming shortly after the state’s first recreational sales began, and paves the way for future cannabis-themed events.

·      Edible Arrangements parent expands cannabis delivery to 30 states (Marijuana Moment, Sept. 18, 2025) – Edible Brands (famous for fruit basket gifts) announced on Sept. 18, 2025, that its cannabis delivery service Edibles.com will serve 30 states. Launched as a pilot in Texas, Edibles.com now offers nationwide shipping of hemp-derived THC gummies and drinks, with same-day delivery in cities like Atlanta and Miami. The company said demand for home delivery of regulated cannabis products has been “overwhelming,” and expansion allows them to meet consumers' desire for trusted brands in the category.

·      Poll: Majority of Americans say pot isn’t dangerous (Marijuana Moment, Sept. 26, 2025) – A Rasmussen Reports poll (Sept. 21–23, 2025) found 53% of Americans view marijuana as “not very” or “not at all” dangerous. Only 42% said it was “somewhat” or “very” dangerous. The survey also asked about the “gateway drug” theory: 51% said marijuana use is “very” or “somewhat” likely to lead to harder drug use. Republicans were twice as likely as Democrats to label marijuana dangerous. The findings (reported Sept. 26) coincide with ongoing debate in Washington over cannabis rescheduling and legalization, reflecting broad public acceptance of cannabis.

·      Colorado issues massive cannabis product recall (Colorado Public Radio, Sept. 29, 2025) – Colorado regulators announced on Sept. 29, 2025, a large recall of cannabis products from 172 stores. Flower and pre-rolls from 710 Labs were pulled for exceeding mold and yeast limits. This was one of the state’s biggest recalls, affecting hundreds of dispensaries. Public health experts worry such recalls often rely on voluntary compliance and lack transparency. The Marijuana Enforcement Division noted that 2025 has seen recalls affecting more stores (465 so far) than any prior year, highlighting scrutiny on product safety.

·      Colorado shops shut down over tainted cannabis pills (CBS Colorado, Sept. 22, 2025) – Colorado authorities settled on Sept. 22, 2025, with three companies behind the 1906 “Midnight Drops” cannabis pill after reports of liver injury. The firms agreed to pay $400,000 in penalties and cease Colorado operations (they may re-enter only under strict conditions). State officials said the THC capsule contained untested herbal extracts (Corydalis, Stephania) linked to liver damage, and the companies failed to warn consumers. The action underscores heightened regulation of edible and cannabis-infused products to protect public health.

International (excluding U.S. & Canada)

·      German study: teen cannabis use declined after legalization (Marijuana Moment, Sept. 23, 2025) – A federal health report published Sept. 23, 2025, found that past-year cannabis use fell slightly among German teens after April 2024 legalization. Use among 12–17 year-olds dropped from 6.7% (2023) to 6.1% (2024). Among young adults (18–25), use rose from 19.9% to 22.7%. Health Minister Karl Lauterbach said the data suggest that regulated markets can protect young people. Experts cautioned that the results are preliminary and urged ongoing monitoring, but the initial finding counters fears that legalization would spark a teen-use surge.

·      NSW parliament backs medicinal cannabis industry plan (Cannaus, Sept. 19, 2025). On Sept. 17, 2025, the New South Wales legislature in Australia unanimously passed a motion to formulate a strategic framework for its medical cannabis industry. The bipartisan motion (endorsed in both houses) cited the booming global market and urged support for local growers. Lawmakers from all parties noted that countries are profiting from cannabis, and the motion called for policies to foster job creation and exports. Even a Greens MP suggested the move could lead to broader cannabis reform; the vote signals growing recognition of cannabis as an economic opportunity in Australia.

·      Italian court challenges CBD ban amid EU rules (Industry report, September 2025) – Italy’s 2025 decree-law, which effectively outlawed hemp-derived CBD products, is facing legal pushback. In one case, a court ruled that prosecuting low-THC hemp flower as a narcotic violates EU law protecting CBD. Critics note that under EU free-market rules, CBD products shouldn’t be banned. The European Commission is now investigating whether Italy’s crackdown on CBD breaches EU single-market regulations. The turmoil has disrupted Italy’s hemp sector, as businesses await a final ruling on the legality of flower-based CBD.

·      UK report: wider NHS cannabis access could add £13bn to economy (Mirror, Sept. 22, 2025) – A Sept. 22 news report summarized a study estimating that expanding NHS medical cannabis prescriptions could boost the UK economy by £13.3 billion over 10 years. The analysis argued that allowing doctors broader authority to prescribe cannabis-based medicines (beyond a few rare conditions) would reduce hospital visits and help thousands of disabled workers return to employment. Advocates said the finding shows potential health and economic gains from easing Britain’s current restrictive stance on medical cannabis.

·      World Cannabis Tourism Day summit set for Sept 27, 2025 (The Marijuana Herald, Sept. 26, 2025) – In advance of the first World Cannabis Tourism Day, organizers announced on Sept. 26, 2025 a free online summit on Sept. 27. Hosted by the Canadian Cannabis Tourism Alliance, the global webinar will feature speakers from 12+ countries, including industry leaders and policymakers. Sessions will cover cannabis cultural heritage, travel and wellness tourism, and strategies for countries to market cannabis-friendly tourism. The event (free to the public) aims to highlight cannabis’s role in international travel as legalization spreads worldwide.

·      Thailand tightens cannabis regulations, focusing on flower (Advantage Austria, Sept. 7, 2025) – Thai authorities implemented new cannabis rules on June 26, 2025, which were reported on September 7. Cannabis “flower” was reclassified as a controlled substance, requiring state licensing. Sales of flowers are now only allowed by prescription (for up to 30 days), and all cannabis advertising and public consumption remain banned. These steps reverse much of Thailand’s 2022 decriminalization, aiming to curb rampant recreational use and prioritize medical oversight. Officials stated that the stricter regime will enhance product safety and public health.

·      Sri Lanka to invest ~$100M in medical cannabis projects (ICBC News, Sept. 27, 2025) – Facing economic challenges, Sri Lanka announced plans on Sept. 27, 2025, to channel roughly $100 million into cannabis cultivation projects. The Board of Investment said it will support six licensed ventures to grow cannabis for medicinal oil exports to the US and Europe. Officials highlighted the potential to create jobs and diversify exports. The investment push follows Sri Lanka’s 2022 law legalizing medical cannabis; authorities view the emerging industry as a way to generate revenue and help alleviate the country’s financial crisis.

Final Takeaways

The past week highlighted how quickly the cannabis industry is changing across all major markets. In Canada, labor actions and market growth revealed both vulnerabilities and increased resilience of a maturing industry. The United States is still navigating a complex mix of regulatory changes, public health concerns, and mainstream acceptance, with states trying bold new approaches while federal debates continue to evolve. Meanwhile, international markets are increasingly influencing the global conversation—whether through economic investment, regulatory testing, or public health research. As legalization spreads and industries grow, these stories collectively show an important truth: cannabis is no longer just a niche market but a global economic and social force. Staying informed is crucial for businesses, policymakers, and consumers alike as new opportunities and challenges keep emerging every week.