The past year once again brought news of changes to the Canadian cannabis sector, marked by significant developments across the regulatory, economic, and political landscapes.
As we look back on some of the top cannabis stories in 2025, we covered a wide range of topics from changes in provincial and federal rules and regulations to the sector’s growing economic contribution, the ever-expanding international market, and the resurgence of the black market.
We also revisit key regional events, including the impact of the BC strike on the cannabis industry and the final rollout of cannabis vapes in Quebec and PEI. Here are the biggest headlines that shaped this eventful year.
Rules and regulatory changes
Federal: Several changes to provincial and federal regulations made waves in 2025, beginning in March with Health Canada’s most in-depth update to the Cannabis Regulations, Hemp Regulations, and Cannabis Act.
The regulatory changes focused on five key areas: licensing, production, packaging and labelling, security, and record keeping. One of the more popular public-facing changes was the allowance for multi-coloured packaging, QR codes, and see-through windows for cannabis flower products.
Provincial: In May, Ontario removed the requirement preventing cannabis or cannabis accessories from being visible from the exterior of retail premises. The AGCO said the change is intended to support cannabis retailers by fostering a more welcoming environment and increasing store safety, while continuing to protect youth from exposure to cannabis.
Read the full article at StratCann
