Seven years after legalization, the cannabis industry has fully integrated into Canadian society, moving from niche to mainstream consumer choice according to a new report. A national survey by Abacus Data reveals that not only is use widespread, but Canadians across the political spectrum see the sector as a valuable economic engine and are ready to see regulations modernized to fuel its growth.
According to the survey, Cannabis is part of everyday life. The data clearly shows that cannabis use is no longer a subculture. More than one in three Canadian adults report using cannabis in the past six months, with that number rising to 50% for those under 45. Cannabis is being consumed in diverse forms, with 25% of Canadians using edibles recently. Notably, the preference for cannabis is challenging alcohol: 30% of users say they prefer cannabis over alcohol, with another 29% viewing the two equally.
Canadians view the legal cannabis industry as a significant economic contributor, with a strong majority of 59% agreeing it’s important to the national economy. This perspective holds true across regions and political affiliations. This broad support translates into a clear message for policymakers.
Canadians are looking for the federal government to move beyond simple compliance and focus on growth. When asked about priorities, respondents want economic departments (like Industry or Agriculture) involved in policy decisions (47%) and tougher enforcement against the illegal market (43%).
There is also strong public appetite for emerging product categories. A majority (57%) is open to federal investment in the growth of new products like cannabis beverages, edibles, and wellness items.
Looking toward the future, over 70% of Canadians view the creation of tens of thousands of new domestic jobs and Canada becoming a global leader in wellness-focused cannabis products as a positive outcome.
The Abacus Data report concludes that the legal cannabis industry has a solid social license and visible economic value.
Abacus Data is a Canadian polling and market research firm based in Ottawa, Ontario.
For more on this report visit: https://abacusdata.ca/cannabis-is-mainstream-public-support-is-strong-and-canadians-want-the-sector-to-grow/