Dutch skunk ban may promote kiwi cannabis tourism

The crack-down on Skunk in Amsterdam gives New Zealand a chance to corner the global cannabis market.

Aotearoa Legalise Cannabis party leader Michael Appleby said ALCP policy would legalise cannabis for recreational and commercial purposes for anyone over 18.

"The GST from tourism and other export markets could reach over $1 billion each year," he said.

"The Dutch have banned cannabis over 15% THC and have restricted sales of cannabis to foreigners, undermining its appeal to cannabis-tourists."

Mr Applebys said outlets like the Daktory in Auckland, where cannabis can be bought from a vending machine, showed such outlets were viable in New Zealand.

"People from around the world went to Amsterdam for the authentic cannabis experience and they would come to New Zealand if we were retailing cannabis."

"There would be a boom in tourism."

Mr Appleby said the requirement for cannabis to be less than 15% THC would also undermine the Dutch hashish market.

ENDS

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