Understanding Malta’s Cannabis Harm Reduction Associations (CHRAs) – 2026 Guide

Understanding Malta's Cannabis Harm Reduction Associations (CHRA)

Cannabis laws in Malta can be confusing, especially when it comes to what’s legal, what isn’t, and how Cannabis Harm Reduction Associations (CHRAs) actually work in practice. With misinformation still widespread online, many residents (and visitors) are unsure how regulated cannabis access differs from recreational use, medical prescriptions, or illegal supply. This updated 2026 guide explains exactly what CHRAs are, how they operate under Maltese law, who can join them, and what you need to know to stay compliant while navigating Malta’s harm-reduction cannabis framework.

Whether you’re considering CHRA membership, researching Malta’s cannabis laws, or simply trying to understand how harm reduction works in practice, this guide provides clear, factual answers based on current legislation and ARUC oversight.

Malta’s evolving approach to cannabis regulation has led to the establishment of CHRA, a significant step in ensuring safe and responsible access to cannabis for registered members. These associations operate under the framework of Chapter 628, the Act to establish the Authority on the Responsible Use of Cannabis (ARUC), enacted on December 18, 2021. While this law does not legalize cannabis use in Malta, it introduces partial decriminalization to address the unintended consequences of criminalization.

Note: This article provides general information about Malta’s cannabis harm reduction framework. Laws and ARUC regulations may change, and CHRA rules vary by association.

What Are CHRAs?

CHRAs are non-profit organizations regulated under ARUC, aimed at providing a safer alternative to the illicit cannabis market. Their primary focus is on harm reduction, ensuring that cannabis products are rigorously tested for contaminants, including microbiological threats and synthetic substances. These associations are committed to promoting informed and responsible cannabis use without encouraging consumption.

The Role of CHRAs in Harm Reduction

By integrating educational initiatives within their distribution centers, CHRAs act as a bridge between cannabis users and harm reduction strategies. Members gain access to information on:

• The properties of different cannabis strains

• Expected effects and risk prevention

• Sustainable and responsible cultivation methods

• Safer consumption practices

Why CHRAs Matter

CHRAs serve as safe spaces for cannabis users, fostering a stigma-free environment where individuals can access cannabis responsibly. Through strict tracking of cannabis from seed to distribution, CHRAs mitigate the risk of illicit trafficking and ensure that cannabis remains within the regulated system.

Additionally, CHRAs contribute to research and policy development by providing data on local cannabis trends, allowing for evidence-based decision-making. With ARUC implementing training and certification programs for CHRA founders and workers, these associations are structured to maintain high safety and ethical standards.

Active CHRAs in Malta

Several CHRAs are currently operating across Malta, each serving different communities while adhering to ARUC regulations. Some of the active associations include:

Updated 2026 Operational CHRA List (ARUC)

1. Sprawt (CHRA 001) — Ħaż-Żebbuġ & Żabbar | Rep: Andrew Cassar Overend
2. KDD Society (CHRA 002) — Ħ’Attard | Rep: Kenneth Ellul
3. Pollen Theory (CHRA 003) — Ta’ Xbiex | Rep: Rafel Sammut
4. Ta’ Zelli (CHRA 004) — Ħaż-Żebbuġ | Rep: Sean Zammit
5. Northern Lights (CHRA 005) — Gżira | Rep: Mirco Andreas Frehner
6. NEGE (CHRA 006) — San Pawl il-Baħar & Żabbar | Rep: Emren John Vella
7. South Flowers (CHRA 007) — Fgura | Rep: Marco Betti
8. The Roots Club (CHRA 008) — Għargħur | Rep: David Caruana
9. 507 (CHRA 009) —  L: San Pawl il-Bahar | Rep: Kearney Attard
10. Green Planet (CHRA 010) — E: info@greenplanet.mt | T: 7764 9341 | L: Xemxija (San Pawl il-Baħar) | Rep: Ryan Darmanin
11. Exotic Culture (CHRA 011) — Mosta | Rep: Kai Merten
12. Grassroots (CHRA 012) — Gżira | Rep: Conrad Zammit
13. Mr T (CHRA 013) —  L: Birżebbuġa | Rep: Joshua Vella
14. Smokey J’s (CHRA 015) —  L: Birkirkara | Rep: Paul Joe Xerxen
15. Bud and Chill (CHRA 016) —  L: Birkirkara | Rep: Ryan Lanzon
16. Organic Oasis (CHRA 018) —  San Gwann | Rep: Jake Abdilla Gough
17. The Green Zone (CHRA 019) —  L: Qormi | Rep: Keith Magro
18. Sun Growers Farm (CHRA 020) —  L: Birkirkara & Għajnsielem | Rep: Aarona Chetcuti
19. Trichomes (CHRA 022) — L: Gudja | Rep: Luke Scicluna
20. Premier Green (CHRA 023) — L: Zebbug | Rep: Daniel John Mountford
21. JD’s Farm (CHRA 025) — L: Qormi | Rep: Frank Azzopardi
22. Jamrock (CHRA 028) — L: Swieqi | Rep: Dr Liam Sciberras

The Future of Cannabis in Malta

With the establishment of CHRAs, Malta has taken a progressive step towards creating a safer and more responsible cannabis landscape. While the government does not promote cannabis use, it acknowledges the need to implement harm reduction measures to protect individuals from the risks associated with unregulated cannabis. As the ARUC continues to refine its regulatory framework, CHRAs will play a crucial role in shaping the future of cannabis policy in Malta.

By promoting harm reduction, fostering community education, and ensuring product safety, CHRAs are setting a precedent for responsible cannabis use, making Malta a model for balanced cannabis regulation in Europe

Legal Comparison: CHRA vs Medical Cannabis vs Illegal Cannabis in Malta

Cannabis Access Models in Malta – Legal Comparison

Key takeaway:
CHRAs are neither recreational dispensaries nor medical clinics. They exist as a distinct, regulated harm-reduction model designed to reduce the risks of illicit cannabis access while keeping use tightly controlled.

Compliance FAQ: CHRAs & Cannabis Law in Malta

Are CHRAs legal in Malta?

Yes. Cannabis Harm Reduction Associations are legally recognised and regulated under Chapter 628 and overseen by ARUC. They operate under strict conditions and compliance rules.

Is cannabis legal in Malta?

Cannabis is not fully legalised in Malta. The law allows limited, regulated access through CHRAs and medical channels as part of a harm-reduction approach. Public use and unregulated supply remain illegal.

Who can join a CHRA?

Only eligible Maltese residents who meet ARUC criteria can join a CHRA. Visitors and tourists cannot legally access cannabis through CHRAs.

Can tourists join a CHRA?

No. CHRA membership is restricted to Maltese residents. Tourists are not eligible, even if cannabis laws are more relaxed in their home country.

Can Tourists Access Cannabis in Malta?

No. Tourists cannot legally access cannabis in Malta.
Cannabis Harm Reduction Associations (CHRAs) are restricted to eligible Maltese residents only. Visitors, short-term residents, and tourists cannot join CHRAs, receive cannabis, or legally purchase cannabis in Malta.

Even though Malta has introduced harm-reduction measures, public possession, purchase, or use of cannabis by tourists remains illegal and may result in fines or other legal consequences.

Why Tourists Are Not Eligible

• CHRA membership is limited to Maltese residents

• Associations are non-profit and closed-membership

• Tourist access would violate ARUC compliance rules

• No legal retail cannabis market exists in Malta

Important Note for Visitors

Medical cannabis prescriptions issued outside Malta are not recognised locally, and there is currently no legal pathway for tourists to access cannabis during a visit.