Portugal’s Infarmed Faces EU Law Clash Over CBD-Infused Cosmetics via GCI

THE WHAT?

Portugal’s National Authority for Medicines and Health Products (Infarmed) has ordered the removal of multiple CBD-based cosmetic products from the market. The agency’s decision hinges on the claim that CBD from cannabis extracts is classified as a narcotic in Portugal, conflicting with the European Union’s principle of free movement of goods.

THE DETAILS

Infarmed mandated the withdrawal of CBD-infused products from brands including SVR, Naturasor, and Dermacol.
The regulator’s position directly contradicts the European Court of Justice’s 2020 ruling that CBD is not a narcotic under international conventions.
By blocking these products, Portugal risks violating EU law, which forbids member states from restricting legally produced CBD merchandise without scientific evidence of harm.
The enforcement disrupts the growing local market for CBD skin care and may push manufacturers toward reformulation or synthetic alternatives to circumvent regulations.