The legalization of cannabis in Canada in 2018 was expected to curtail the black market for marijuana. However, a significant portion of cannabis users continues to rely on illegal sources. According to a report by the Department of Public Safety, one-third of cannabis users still buy from the black market despite the availability of legal options. This preference is driven by various factors, including better quality, prices, and service.
Better Quality and Prices
Many cannabis users argue that the quality of marijuana available through illegal channels is superior to that found in legal dispensaries. This perception is a significant factor in their decision to stick with the black market. According to a report by Blacklock’s Reporter, users believe they can obtain better weed from illegal sources. This sentiment was echoed by participants in a study conducted by Quorus Consulting Group, who highlighted the importance of quality and price in their purchasing decisions.
“Price was an important — if not the most important driver — for getting cannabis products from illegal sources,” the report stated. This was especially true for products like dry leaf and edibles. Users also pointed out that the black market offers more competitive prices, which is a crucial consideration for many.
Customer Service and Convenience
Another compelling reason users prefer the black market is the level of customer service and convenience it offers. Many users have established personal relationships with their dealers, who often go out of their way to ensure customer satisfaction. These dealers provide doorstep delivery, anytime service, and the opportunity to see or sample the product before purchase. They also offer small bonuses, extra product, and no-hassle returns, which contribute to customer loyalty.
One participant in the study mentioned, “The relationship I have with my dealer is a friendly one.” This personal connection and the added conveniences are significant factors that legal dispensaries struggle to compete with. The flexibility and personalized service provided by illegal sources make them a preferred choice for many users.
Indifference to Organized Crime
Despite the known risks associated with purchasing from illegal sources, many cannabis users are indifferent to the connection between the black market and organized crime. The report by Blacklock’s Reporter noted that “very few participants see a connection between obtaining cannabis from illegal sources and organized crime.” This lack of concern highlights a disconnect between the perceived and actual risks of engaging with the black market.
The perception that illegal suppliers are not a significant concern has been reinforced by the overall response to legalization. Parliament’s decision to legalize pot aimed to create a safe, legal, and regulated market. However, it seems to have inadvertently reassured some users that illegal suppliers need not be worried. This misconception further entrenches the black market as a viable alternative for many cannabis users.
Challenges for Legal Dispensaries
Legal cannabis dispensaries face numerous challenges in competing with the black market. While the intent behind legalization was to provide a safe and regulated alternative, several factors hinder the success of legal dispensaries. High prices, limited product variety, and stringent regulations are some of the issues that affect their competitiveness.
Legal dispensaries are subject to taxes and regulations that drive up the cost of their products. This makes it difficult for them to offer prices that can compete with the black market. Additionally, the variety of products available in legal dispensaries is often limited compared to what users can find through illegal channels. This lack of variety can drive users to seek out illegal sources that offer a wider selection of products.
Steps to Improve the Legal Market
To reduce the reliance on the black market, it is crucial to address the factors that drive users to illegal sources. One of the most significant steps would be to make legal cannabis more affordable. This could be achieved by reducing taxes and regulatory costs that contribute to the high prices in legal dispensaries. By offering more competitive prices, legal dispensaries can attract more users away from the black market.
Another important measure is to improve the quality and variety of products available in legal dispensaries. Users should feel confident that they are getting high-quality cannabis that meets their preferences. Expanding the product range to include more options like edibles, concentrates, and different strains can help meet the diverse needs of cannabis users.
Enhancing Customer Experience
Improving the customer experience in legal dispensaries is also essential. Legal stores can learn from the personalized service provided by black market dealers. Offering conveniences such as delivery services, loyalty programs, and easy returns can help build customer loyalty. Providing a friendly and welcoming atmosphere in dispensaries can also enhance the overall shopping experience.
Education and Awareness
Educating users about the risks associated with the black market is another important step. Many users may not fully understand the implications of supporting illegal sources, including the potential connection to organized crime. Public awareness campaigns that highlight these risks and the benefits of purchasing from legal sources can help shift perceptions and encourage more users to transition to the legal market.
Despite the legalization of cannabis in Canada, a significant portion of users continues to rely on the black market. This preference is driven by factors such as better quality, competitive prices, and superior customer service offered by illegal sources. Addressing these issues within the legal market is crucial to reducing the reliance on the black market. By making legal cannabis more affordable, improving product quality and variety, enhancing customer experience, and raising awareness about the risks of the black market, Canada can move closer to achieving the goals of its cannabis legalization policy.
