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Why are coffee shops allowed to sell soft drugs in the Netherlands?

The government allows the sale of soft drugs in coffee shops in order to prevent people who use soft drugs from coming into contact with hard drugs.

A coffee shop is an establishment where cannabis is sold. Alcoholic drinks are not allowed to be sold or consumed in coffee shops. The use of soft drugs is not associated with an unacceptable health risk.

See also

  • Difference between hard and soft drugs
  • Toleration policy regarding soft drugs and coffee shops
  • Drug use and addiction care
  • Nuisance associated with coffee shops and cannabis growing
  • International effort to combat drug trafficking and other forms of crime
  • Am I committing a criminal offence if I possess, produce or deal in drugs?
  • What is addiction care?
  • How does the law distinguish between soft and hard drugs?
Questions? Contact the Public Information Service

Ministry responsible

  • Ministry of Justice and Security

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