Swiss Narcotics Act — cannabis articles explained
The Narcotics Act (BetmG/NarcA) is the central legal basis for cannabis in Switzerland. Summary of key articles — from the 1% threshold to the serious case.
NarcA = Federal Act on Narcotics (SR 812.121). Cannabis-relevant: Art. 8 (banned, exceptions), Art. 19 (trafficking, up to 20 years serious case), Art. 19a (consumption, misdemeanour), Art. 28b (CHF 100 fixed fine), Art. 8a (pilot trials). BetmVV-EDI annex 6: 1% THC threshold. Reform towards regulated market from 2026 in parliament.
Art. 8 — what is a narcotic?
NarcA Art. 8 bans certain substances with medical, scientific and industrial exceptions. Cannabis is on annex 6 of BetmVV-EDI, but only above 1% total THC.
Practice: CBD hemp <1% THC = not a narcotic, freely tradeable.
Art. 19 — trafficking & serious case
Art. 19 para. 1: manufacture, import/export, trade, brokerage — up to 3 years.
Art. 19 para. 2 (serious case): large quantity (~4 kg pure THC), gang, professional — up to 20 years.
Art. 19a & Art. 28b — consumption
Art. 19a: consumption = misdemeanour, fine CHF 200–1,000.
Art. 28b (2013): fixed fine up to 10 g, adult, personal use → CHF 100, no proceedings.
Art. 8a — pilot projects
In force since May 2021, allows time-limited scientific trials. Basis for projects in Zurich, Bern, Basel, Lausanne, Geneva, Lucerne, Winterthur. Limited until 2031.
FAQ
What is the NarcA?
Federal Act on Narcotics (SR 812.121). Central basis for cannabis regulation in Switzerland.
Which article regulates consumption?
Art. 19a (misdemeanour), plus Art. 28b for the CHF 100 fixed fine up to 10 g.
What is the serious case?
Large quantity (~4 kg pure THC), gang or professional — up to 20 years.
Where is the 1% threshold?
Not directly in NarcA, but in annex 6 of BetmVV-EDI.
When will reform come?
2028 at earliest. Motion adopted 2023, draft 2024, FOPH preliminary draft 2026.