Considerations for selling hemp products

On this page you can learn more about the complexities of selling hemp and cannabis products online by exploring the legal frameworks and compliance standards necessary for navigating the United States, Canadian, and international markets.

Understanding hemp and hemp-derived products

Hemp is a variety of the Cannabis sativa plant that produces a wide range of cannabinoids. Hemp-derived products are made from different parts of the hemp plant and often contain cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound. The allowable levels of CBD and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) vary depending on the jurisdiction.

When Shopify refers to “hemp”, this includes both hemp and hemp-derived products. “Hemp-derived products” refers specifically to CBD products permitted under the U.S. Farm Bill (2018). In Canada, the term “hemp” comprises both hemp and cannabis products permitted under the Cannabis Act, including CBD and THC products.

Selling hemp in the United States (U.S.)

The U.S. Farm Bill (2018) provides a framework for the legal sale of hemp derivatives. You must comply with federal, state, and local regulations when selling hemp products on Shopify. This includes understanding labeling requirements, testing standards, and any state-specific restrictions. It’s your responsibility to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, as well as requirements for selling hemp and hemp-derived products in the United States.

You also need to stay updated on federal, state, and local laws, as well as any updates from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). If you require further guidance, then it’s recommended to consult with a lawyer, as Shopify can’t provide legal advice regarding what and where you can sell.

For detailed information on the FDA's position on dietary supplements, food, and cosmetics containing hemp, such as CBD, refer to the FDA Consumer Update and the FDA Regulation of Cannabis and Cannabis-Derived Products.

Selling cannabis products in Canada

Cannabis products in Canada are regulated under the Cannabis Act. In Canada, the term cannabis encompasses both hemp and cannabis products permitted under the Cannabis Act. This includes CBD and THC products. It’s important to review and understand the requirements for selling these products on Shopify. By agreeing to these requirements, you confirm your commitment to comply with the laws and regulations in all of the jurisdictions where you conduct business.

Before selling cannabis on Shopify in Canada, you need to take the following steps:

Obtain a federal or provincial license to sell cannabis.
Review and agree to the requirements for selling cannabis in Canada
Learn about the federal, provincial, and local laws for selling cannabis, as well as the Cannabis Act.

If you require further guidance, then it’s recommended to consult with a lawyer, as Shopify can’t provide legal advice regarding what and where you can sell.

For more information related to selling cannabis in Canada, refer to the following resources:

Selling hemp internationally

When selling hemp products internationally, ensure that you comply with the laws and regulations of both your jurisdiction and your customers’ jurisdictions. Shopify generally supports the sale of hemp if you’re located in a jurisdiction where the sale of these products is permitted, and you comply with the laws of all the jurisdictions where you conduct business. It’s your responsibility to ensure that your products don’t exceed the allowable amounts of THC and CBD in your jurisdictions and the jurisdictions of your customers.

Before selling hemp products on Shopify internationally, review and stay updated on federal, regional, and local laws, as well as the Shopify Terms or Service. If you require further guidance, then it’s recommended to consult with a lawyer, as Shopify can’t provide legal advice regarding what and where you can sell.

Reporting a Terms of Service Violation

If you come across an alleged Terms of Service violation on Shopify, then you can report the issue to Shopify.