2025 BC Cannabis Use Survey Results Summary and Implications for Cannabis Industry

The BC Cannabis Secretariat just published the 2025 BC Cannabis Use Survey, providing insight into how adults in BC are consuming non-medical cannabis and where they are choosing to purchase it.

Key Findings

• About 31% of adults (19+) in BC reported using cannabis in the past year, slightly lower than the previous survey but still above pre-legalization levels.
• Most survey respondents reported using non-medical cannabis only. Fewer people are using cannabis exclusively for medical purposes.
• Daily and frequent use increased, with more users reporting daily or multiple-times-per-day use.
• Edibles and vape products are becoming more common alongside dried flower.
• A growing share of users reported buying cannabis exclusively from legal sources, though a notable portion still obtain some products from illicit sellers, including unlicensed online source (6%), a dealer (7%), and unlicensed store/dispensary (11%).
• Indicators of potentially problematic use rose, including difficulty cutting down with some expressing concern about use.
• Driving shortly after cannabis use remains an issue, reported by roughly one in five users.

Source: 2025 BC Cannabis Use Survey (PDF).

Implications for Canada’s Legal Cannabis Industry

Legal cannabis retail has made significant progress in BC. Competition from the illicit market is decreasing, although it continues to be a problem. Consumers’ continued reliance on non-regulated sources suggests that pricing, taxation, and product availability are still driving illegal sales.

For licensed retailers, the findings point to the importance of product education, responsible merchandising, and a differentiated in-store experience. For the BC Liquor & Cannabis Regulation Branch, survey findings reveal a need to balance public health goals with market realities if the legal system is expected to fully displace illegal sales.