Quebec Cannabis Consumption Declines, With Notable Drop Among Youth

Cannabis use in Quebec has begun to decline nearly a decade after nationwide legalization, according to new data from the Quebec Cannabis Survey. The report, released this week, shows that 17% of residents aged 15 and older used cannabis in 2025—a modest drop from 18% in 2024 and down from the 2021 peak of 20%. While overall use remains above pre-legalization levels of 14% in 2018, the decline is most pronounced among younger users

Medical professionals attribute the gradual decrease to enhanced public education efforts since legalization. Dr. Romina Mizrahi, psychiatrist and director of the McGill Research Centre for Cannabis, explained, “I realize that there was a lot of hype when cannabis was legalized and we have done, and many others, a lot of education especially for young people as to the risks.” The survey found that only 19% of those aged 15 to 20 reported cannabis use in 2025, a significant drop from 28% in 2018

In contrast, usage among 21- to 34-year-olds remains relatively high, peaking at 38% in 2021 before declining to 30% in 2025. Dr. Mizrahi emphasized the need for continued education in this age group, stating, “That’s something that I think we need to work on. To ensure that people understand that in many cases, I tell my patients, ‘If you’re going high to work, it’s like you’re drunk at work.’” The survey also revealed that 41% of users consume cannabis less than once a month, while 16% use it daily

Other factors may influence usage trends, including the availability of alternative products like edibles and vaping. Professor Carolyn Baglole of the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre noted, “Vaping has increased substantially in the last few years amongst youth and young adults.” The survey also highlighted the growing impact of digital marketing, with 18% of Quebecers aged 15 and older reporting exposure to cannabis advertising online, rising to 39% among those aged 15 to 17

From the OG Lab newsroom perspective, Quebec’s evolving cannabis landscape reflects the complex interplay of policy, education, and consumer habits. The marked decline in youth consumption is a positive signal for public health, but persistent high rates among young adults and the rise of vaping underscore ongoing challenges. As regulatory approaches and market offerings continue to shift, industry stakeholders will need to balance accessibility with responsible use and education