In February 2025, the University of Malta (UoM) and the Authority for the Responsible Use of Cannabis (ARUC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration on cannabis research and testing. The agreement enables academic researchers to analyse both illicit cannabis samples obtained through criminal proceedings and licit samples supplied by licensed Cannabis Harm Reduction Associations (CHRAs). This collaboration supports evidence-based assessment of health risks associated with unregulated cannabis cultivation.

The first results stemming from this collaboration were announced during a press briefing held on the 6th of February 2026. The study examined a total of twenty-four (24) cannabis inflorescence samples, consisting of twelve (12) illicit samples and twelve (12) samples supplied by licensed CHRAs.

The findings were clear. Pesticide residues were detected in five (5) of the twelve illicit samples, with all five showing significantly high levels of contamination. No pesticide residues were detected in any of the regulated samples.

These results provide strong scientific evidence that Malta’s cannabis regulatory framework is achieving its public health objectives. Cannabis accessed through the regulated framework is demonstrably cleaner and safer, while unregulated cannabis continues to pose clear risks to consumer health due to the absence of oversight and quality controls.

The study highlights the public health concerns linked to illicit cultivation and reinforces the role of regulation, testing, and accountability as key pillars of Malta’s harm-reduction approach. While prevention remains central – with the safest option being non-consumption – regulation plays a critical role in reducing harm among individuals who choose to consume cannabis.

Beyond its immediate findings, this research offers valuable insight into the quality and safety of cannabis currently available in Malta and provides a useful reference for future policy development, consumer protection measures, and public health strategies.

The conclusion is clear: regulation protects, while the illicit market endangers. Malta’s harm-reduction strategy is working, and the evidence now confirms it.