Wilmington, Del. — Delaware’s highly anticipated adult-use recreational marijuana market launched on August 1, 2025, quickly achieving nearly $1 million in combined recreational and medical cannabis sales over its opening weekend. According to the Delaware Office of the Marijuana Commissioner (OMC), retailers and dispensaries across the state processed $903,000 in total cannabis purchases from August 1 through August 3, with recreational sales alone generating approximately $625,000 and an estimated $93,600 in tax revenue for the First State.
The rollout marked a significant milestone following legislative approval in 2023 that authorized legal adult-use sales and created an extensive regulatory system overseen by the OMC. While up to 30 new retail licenses are expected, initial recreational sales began exclusively at the state’s 13 medical marijuana dispensaries, which were granted conversion licenses to accelerate the launch.
By county, New Castle’s dispensaries saw the highest activity, generating more than $432,000 in combined sales.
Sussex County’s five locations reported over $242,000, and Kent County’s four stores reached nearly $228,000 in the same period.
Consumer preferences echoed national trends, with marijuana flower leading sales at $509,042 (56% of total), followed by vape products at $233,267 (26%), and edibles at $123,768 (14%). Pre-rolls and concentrates accounted for the remainder. While medical marijuana remains tax-exempt, the state enforces a 15% excise tax on all recreational sales; revenue from this tax will support regulatory oversight, public health, and state community initiatives.
Governor Matt Meyer lauded the “robust demand and a successful market launch,” emphasizing the significance of a well-regulated system benefiting Delaware’s communities, economy, and public health. Marijuana Commissioner Joshua Sanderlin credited both consumer interest and the readiness of the state’s licensed operators for a smooth transition, noting compliance checks revealed retailers operated within state guidelines.
The launch has not been without controversy. Some advocates and entrepreneurs criticized the initial rollout, arguing that prioritizing established dispensaries over new licensees creates inequities and delays broader participation—especially among small business hopefuls selected through the state’s license lottery. Nevertheless, officials maintain that the phased approach ensures product quality, public safety, and a secure supply chain as Delaware expands its legal cannabis industry. Adults 21 and over can now legally purchase up to one ounce of cannabis flower or equivalent products at participating retail locations. Medical marijuana, which continues to be tax-free, remains available through the same dispensaries.
State authorities project that as more recreational-only businesses come online in the coming months, Delaware’s legal cannabis industry could generate up to $280 million in taxes and fees annually, funding a range of public priorities and creating new economic opportunities statewide.
