Initially having started in North America, the cannabis industry ‘green rush’ has since gone international and expanded to nearly every corner of the globe. A majority of countries around the world have modernized their laws and regulations to permit medical cannabis production and commerce, to some degree.

A handful of countries have also adopted national measures for adult-use legalization, with more countries likely soon to follow.

The expansion of the emerging legal cannabis industry has created once-in-a-generation opportunities for entrepreneurs, investors, and industry service providers. This is particularly true for individuals and entities seeking to establish or expand their cannabis operations on the European continent, where a combination of product demand and a legal framework is creating numerous lucrative opportunities.

European markets are particularly enticing for companies based in the United States that are looking to expand internationally.

“Adult-use cannabis in the U.S. has matured over the past decade, with only a few major markets left to open. The next chapter is global, and Europe is the frontier.” points out longtime international industry expert Mike Goral, J.D., LL.M., a Partner at Verdant Strategies.

“Consumers there already value American brands, and early movers are positioning themselves for growth that could define the next decade. Several public companies have already made the leap, underscoring how critical it is to think beyond U.S. borders to capture long-term market share.” Goral also stated.

Germany is currently Europe’s largest legal cannabis market, having launched medical cannabis sales through pharmacies in 2017 and legalized adult-use cannabis in 2024. The country’s industry and regulatory framework differ from models seen in the United States due to various factors, not the least of which is Germany’s membership in the European Union. EU membership makes Germany’s industry bound by current EU agreements, adding another layer to a cannabis company’s expansion strategy development.

Current EU agreements prohibit member nations from launching nationwide adult-use cannabis sales, such as the model that is in place in Canada. Because of this, Germany’s legal industry model is primarily built around the medical sector, and recreational business opportunities are found in the home cultivation, consumption, and cultivation association subsectors.

Another top European market target for U.S. cannabis companies is the United Kingdom. Grand View Research estimates that the cannabis cultivation market in the United Kingdom is expected to reach a projected revenue of $827.8 million USD by 2030, experiencing an estimated compound annual growth rate of 10.1% during the forecast period. UK market regulations are still evolving, and identifying the best opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors requires an increased level of due diligence.

Expanding operations to European markets doesn’t just require a solid strategy for logistics; it also requires capital, and funding is becoming increasingly difficult to secure. Many companies consider it to be the top hurdle to overcome when asked why they haven’t already expanded to European markets.

“Funding a growth plan in today’s economic climate is one of the biggest challenges for companies expanding into European markets. That is why having a structured strategy is critical. Verdant is the financial ally in this process. We manage the fundamentals and provide the financial advisory support that positions companies effectively when they pitch to investors.” states Mike Goral of Verdant Strategies.

Mr. Goral will be presenting at the upcoming Talman House investor event in London on November 10, 2025. The investor gathering for members of The Talman House will be held at The Savoy in London, one of the most iconic venues in Europe. The Talman House is Europe’s largest cannabis investor network. Designed for investors, the Talman London event will provide valuable insights into the latest market trends, regulatory developments, and emerging business opportunities across Europe and beyond.

Attendees can explore a selection of innovative companies through live pitches from promising cannabis businesses, each positioned for remarkable growth. With a thoughtfully curated agenda, expert-led discussions, and exceptional networking opportunities in an intimate, high-level setting, this event is essential for investors looking to stay ahead in this fast-evolving sector.

Interested investors can find out more about The Talman House and the upcoming event in London at: thetalmangroup.com/talman-events/talman-london-2025.