Amsterdam Considers Banning Foreign Tourists from Cannabis Coffee Shops
Amsterdam is considering a ban on foreign tourists in cannabis coffee shops to curb drug tourism, aligning with national policies
Key Points
- 1Amsterdam plans to ban foreign tourists from cannabis coffee shops
- 2The initiative aims to reduce drug tourism and its negative effects
- 3Local cannabis retailers warn of increased street dealing risks
- 4Tourism could decline significantly if the ban is enacted
- 5The city council's approval is required for the proposal to proceed
Amsterdam officials are considering a significant policy shift that would restrict access to the city's famous cannabis coffee shops to only Dutch residents. This proposal, backed by Mayor Femke Halsema, aims to curb the influx of drug tourists, particularly in the capital's bustling red-light district. The move aligns Amsterdam with the rest of the Netherlands, where coffee shop entry is restricted to locals
The push for this change stems from concerns over the negative impact of drug tourism on Amsterdam's local community. Mayor Halsema noted that a substantial portion of the city's coffee shops attracts young tourists who often cause disturbances. With nearly a third of the country's coffee shops located in Amsterdam, this has become a significant issue for the city, which is seeking to promote cultural tourism instead
However, the proposal has met with opposition from the Association of Cannabis Retailers in Amsterdam. Spokesperson Joachim Helms argues that banning tourists from coffee shops could inadvertently increase street-level drug trading. He warns that tourists determined to consume cannabis might turn to illegal street dealers, potentially exacerbating public safety concerns
Research supports the potential impact of such a ban on tourism. A study highlighted that a significant percentage of tourists from the UK, Germany, and France might avoid Amsterdam if cannabis access were restricted. Additionally, the city could see a reduction in coffee shops from 166 to 73 by 2025 to meet only local demand. The city council still needs to approve the proposal, and discussions are ongoing