"Netherlands Pioneers Landmark Cannabis Experiment, Testing Full Legalization"

The Netherlands has begun an experiment to regulate the cannabis trade by allowing coffee shops to sell legally cultivated cannabis. While small amounts of weed can be bought and sold without fear of prosecution, commercial cultivation remains illegal. The experiment aims to provide quality-controlled weed to coffee shops and eliminate illegal growers. The initial phase will last up to six months and could be expanded to other municipalities. The Netherlands, known for its permissive pot policy, has become more conservative in recent years, closing shops and banning smoking weed in certain areas.