The difference between cannabis gummies and CBD gummies
As a CBD import agent, we would like to answer your questions about cannabis gummies (gummy gummies containing HHCH), which have been a hot topic recently.
To put it simply, cannabis gummies and CBD gummies are completely different things.
The products we handle (MEDTERRA, CBDfx) do not contain any THC-derived ingredients, including HHCH.
Cannabis-derived ingredients prohibited in Japan
Currently, the cannabis-derived ingredients regulated by Japan's Cannabis Control Act are as follows:
- THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)
- HHC (Hexahydrocannabinol) to be regulated in March 2022
- THCH (Tetrahydrocannabihexol) to be regulated in August 2023
- HHCH (Hexahydrocannabihexol) will be regulated from December 2, 2023
Our view is that there is little research or evidence regarding synthetic cannabinoids such as HHC and HHCH, and their safety cannot be confirmed. We have not handled, and will not handle, products that contain such unclear ingredients.
History of THC-related substances and legal regulations
THC
It is said that excessive intake of THC, a type of hemp-derived ingredient, can cause hallucinations and brain damage, and it has long been regulated by the Cannabis Control Act.
HHC
HHC, which became subject to regulation in March 2022, is a synthetic substance made by hydrogenating THC. Because it is a THC-derived ingredient, it has similar effects and is therefore subject to regulation.
THCH
THCH is a newly discovered cannabinoid discovered in 2020, and because it has a similar molecular structure to THC, it became subject to regulation in August 2023.
HHCH
HHCH is a synthetic substance made by hydrogenating THCH. It will be regulated as a new illegal ingredient from December 2, 2023.
As you can see from this history, the current situation is that every time regulations are imposed, new ingredients are born, resulting in a cat-and-mouse game.
Use and possession of HHCH, which is contained in cannabis gummies
HHCH is a synthetic substance made by hydrogenating THCH, which will be regulated in August 2023. Strictly speaking, as of November 2023, it is an ingredient that is not regulated by law.
However, as with HHC, it has a similar molecular structure and effects to THC, so it will be subject to regulation from December 2, 2023, and possession will be subject to penalties.
Conclusion
Our company has been serving as an import agent for CBD products for five years since the early days of the Japanese CBD market (2018).
The products we import are imported and sold in accordance with Japanese law under the guidance of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's Narcotics Control Division.
At the same time, we strive to provide our customers with safer products by updating information and evidence daily from the United States, a leading country in the cannabis industry.
With the restrictions on HHCH, it is expected that new synthetic cannabinoids will emerge, but as in the past, we will not handle products that contain such unclear ingredients. Thank you for your continued support.
We are a member of MAJIC (Japan Cannabis Industry Association)
About MAJIC (Japan Cannabis Industry Association)
MAJIC is the first trade association established in Japan for manufacturers and distributors of legal cannabis (industrial hemp) products.
MAJIC was formed to ethically grow Japan's cannabis industry. Our members are Japanese legal cannabis industry practitioners (importers, growers, wholesalers, retailers, etc.) who share our mission and are focused on setting industry standards, ensuring safety, enforcing compliance, ensuring transparency, and making a positive contribution to the people and economy of Japan.
MAJIC Statement on HHCH
We urge an immediate ban on the possession, use, and distribution of synthetic compounds, “high compounds,” such as HHCH.
