Tag: Coffeeshops

A Dutch criminologist predicts that two years from now, all coffeeshops in the Netherlands will have closed.

The coffeeshops — establishments where cannabis and other soft drugs can be legally bought and used — are under fire for various reasons, ranging from the nuisance created by tens of thousands of drug tourists, to ties to criminal organizations.

The mayors of some municipalities are closing the coffeeshops, while those of others towns — Amsterdam included — speak out in support of the current approach.

Local pot smokers, who usually cut joints with tobacco, and owners of the “coffee shops” where they are allowed to light up will have to change their habits when the nation implements the indoor tobacco ban. Puffing a pure marijuana cigarette in public will still be permitted; smoking one with tobacco will merit coffee shop owners a 300-euro ($466) fine for the first offense and 2,400 euros for a fourth.

On July 1, 2008, a smoking ban will come into effect in all horeca (hotel, restaurant, and catering) businesses in the Netherlands. Will the smoking ban make it illegal to light up in an Amsterdam coffee shop? Yes and no. Among other things, it depends on what you want to smoke. Read on. You may be surprised.

The price of Dutch Cannabis has risen by 20 percent over the past year.

As a result of official policy, Amsterdam — like the rest of the Netherlands — counts a dwindling number of coffeeshops. But will the city soon be forced to close all but 16 of the popular establishments?

Things to know about Amsterdam’s Coffeeshops