Quebec’s government-owned cannabis stores are “priority enterprises,” and businesses producing raw materials for the stores must maintain their activities in accordance with the directives of public health authorities.

Neighboring Ontario also deemed its regulated adult-use cannabis producers and retailers “essential” this week, meaning they are not required to close their doors.

Quebec ordered the “minimization” of all non-essential services and activities until April 13 to curb the spread of COVID-19.

“Quebec Premier François Legault said this week the list of priority services and activities will be continuously adapted and updated.

Quebec has 40 Société québécoise du cannabis stores open across the province.

The franchise says it has put mitigation measures in place to ensure the safety of employees and customers.

It also operates an e-commerce monopoly, however Canada Post is no longer delivering parcels requiring proof of age to customers’ doorsteps, which may impact demand.

Quebec declared a public health emergency on March 13.

The province reported 1,013 cases of the virus as of Monday.

Other provinces have taken steps to promote social distancing by reducing the amount of time consumers spend in stores amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Regulated cannabis stores in British Columbia are now allowed to accept product reservations online and over the phone. Previously they were not allowed to do so.

A full list of Quebec’s priority services can be found here.

Matt Lamers is Marijuana Business Daily’s international editor, based near Toronto. He can be reached at [email protected].

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Originally posted on via Cannabis Industry News