The Google Ads Canada Cannabis Pilot Program, originally announced in August 2025, has been updated.
Eligibility for the pilot has been expanded. In addition to federally licensed advertisers, participation in this pilot is now open to authorized government operators.
The change log has been amended to reflect this change and is included below for full context:
Updated Cannabis-Related Content Policy (August 2025)
Google Ads is launching a limited pilot program in Canada for specific, legally allowed cannabis-related product types or services.
This pilot will run on Search only, beginning Aug 25, 2025, through Dec 31, 2026. Its purpose is to explore user interest and inform potential future policy updates.
During the pilot, cannabis product ads may be available on Search. If you see a relevant ad but prefer not to, you'll have the option to opt out and manage your ad preferences through My Ad Center.
Participation in this pilot is restricted to entities holding federal Health Canada licenses for Cultivation, Processing, or Sale for Medical Purposes, as well as provincially and territorially authorized government operators and private retailers.
(Posted on October 15, 2025)