The importation of medical cannabis into Germany has experienced a remarkable increase throughout 2024, primarily for medical and scientific applications. According to the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM), the amount of imported cannabis rose significantly from 8.1 tons in the first quarter to 31.7 tons by the fourth quarter. This escalation represents nearly a fourfold increase when comparing the fourth quarter of 2024 to the same period in the previous year. In total, over 72 tons of dried cannabis flowers were imported for medical and scientific purposes during the year. In contrast, German domestic production for these purposes yielded around 2.6 tons during the same timeframe, a figure that was established years ago through a four-year allocation process. The bulk of the imported cannabis originated from Canada, which contributed more than 33 tons, followed by Portugal with over 17 tons. Other notable sources included Denmark (approximately 7.4 tons), North Macedonia (2.7 tons), and Spain (2.2 tons). While the BfArM did not specify the reasons for this significant surge in imports, it coincides with the legalization of non-medical cannabis consumption for adults in Germany in April of the previous year, albeit with stringent regulations. Among these regulations, individuals are permitted to cultivate up to three cannabis plants at home and can possess up to 50 grams of cannabis. Additionally, licensed non-commercial 'cultivation associations' are allowed to grow cannabis collectively. Markus Beier, the national chair of the General Practitioners Association, highlighted concerns regarding the rise in online cannabis providers amidst the growing import figures. He suggested that much of the imported cannabis may not be prescribed by practicing physicians under statutory health insurance but rather obtained through online platforms that aggressively market the easy prescription of medical cannabis via private prescriptions. Beier emphasized that the professional guidelines for prescribing medical cannabis are quite narrow and typically apply to patients with specific conditions such as multiple sclerosis or those in palliative care. He acknowledged that the simplification of the prescription process for eligible patients by general practitioners has been beneficial, eliminating unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles that previously complicated access for those with genuine medical needs. The implications of the rising import levels raise questions about the future of medical cannabis provision in Germany, as the influx from foreign sources may affect local production and distribution channels. As the market continues to evolve, both healthcare professionals and regulatory bodies will need to monitor these developments closely to ensure that patient care remains a priority and that the integrity of medical cannabis use is upheld.