A Quick Recap of Current Social Media Platforms’ Cannabis Advertising Policies

Businesses are keenly aware that their online presence leaves a lasting impression. Social media platforms have become the go-to channels for promoting products and services, and the cannabis industry is no exception. Let's explore how major platforms handle cannabis advertising:

1. X:

• In 2023, X has adopted more lenient policies regarding cannabis advertising compared to other major platforms.
• Advertisers can promote brand preference and share informational content related to CBD, THC, and the cannabis industry.
• Ads are permitted in U.S. states and Canada where cannabis is legally available.
• Advertisers must be licensed and pre-authorized by Twitter.
• Prohibits using copyrighted characters or public figures appealing to minors.
• Strictly restricts targeting anyone under the age of 21.

2. YouTube:

• YouTube has embraced a more flexible approach to cannabis-related content.
• The platform has loosened restrictions on cannabis content, including recreational drugs.
• Advertisements for cannabis-infused products require a "For Adult Use Only" disclaimer.
• Advertisers must follow local laws and regulations, targeting users of legal age.

3. Pinterest:

• Pinterest allows advertisements promoting the health benefits of Cannabidiol (CBD) and hemp products.
• Organic cannabis content with an artistic or educational nature is permitted.
• Strictly prohibits the commercial sale of cannabis and the promotion of illegal recreational drugs.
• Appropriate for CBD-only oils and hemp products without THC.
• Age targeting restrictions apply.

4. Snapchat:

• Snapchat permits limited ads for cannabis, CBD, and related products.
• Advertisements must adhere to appropriate targeting and legal consumption areas.
• Prohibits the depiction of smoking or vaping except for public health messages.
• Maintains strict restrictions on illegal or recreational drug advertising.

5. Meta:

• Meta's policies have evolved to allow specific CBD and hemp-related ads.
• Non-ingestible hemp-derived CBD products can be promoted in the U.S.
• Prohibits THC and psychoactive cannabis product advertisements.
• Allows educational content and advocacy related to CBD and hemp.
• The process of getting ads accepted can be time-consuming and requires compliance with Meta's advertising policies.

6. Reddit:

• Reddit prohibits paid advertisements for THC or CBD ingestible products.
• Allows promotion of topical and non-ingestible hemp-derived CBD products in the U.S.
• Advertisers must adhere to these guidelines to comply with Reddit's policies.

7. LinkedIn:

• LinkedIn strictly prohibits the promotion of illegal drugs, including cannabis.
• Ads must comply with all applicable laws and regulations.
• Mainstream social media platforms do not permit cannabis advertising.

8. TikTok:

• TikTok has strict rules and regulations regarding the advertising of cannabis-related content.
• While TikTok's Community Guidelines do not explicitly mention CBD or cannabis, the platform has a policy against promoting certain products, including drugs and tobacco.
• Users must ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations when posting branded content.

No stranger to constraints, the cannabis industry must artfully steer through a complex regulatory landscape in the digital sphere. X and YouTube offer more flexibility in advertising, while platforms like Snapchat and Pinterest have specific limitations. Meta and Reddit have their own sets of rules, and LinkedIn remains conservative in this regard. TikTok remains strict when it comes to cannabis advertising.? In addition, TikTok continues to fight uncertainty as governments continue to loudly gripe about security and data concerns and threaten to ban the app. Staying informed about the latest regulations and advertising guidelines is crucial for responsible and compliant advertising practices. As the cannabis industry continues to gain exposure and recognition, we hope to see further progress and acceptance across social media platforms.