Yes, you may grow industrial hemp in Sweden, but only EU-approved varieties with THC below 0.3 %, using certified seed, and the cultivation must be declared in connection with farm support. Growing hemp without meeting the requirements can be classed as illegal narcotics cultivation.
Is it legal to grow hemp in Sweden?
Yes, industrial hemp is a legal agricultural crop in the EU and Sweden — but under clear conditions. It is not a free-for-all to grow any cannabis plant; it is the approved industrial hemp varieties that are permitted.
What requirements apply?
Three central conditions: (1) an EU-approved variety from the common catalogue of varieties, (2) certified seed (you may not simply use your own harvested seed as you please), and (3) that the cultivation is properly declared by applying for farm support for the area via the Swedish Board of Agriculture (Jordbruksverket). The THC content must be below 0.3 %.
Do you need a permit?
It is less a matter of a separate "permit" and more about meeting the variety, seed and declaration requirements and applying for farm support for the cultivation. Exact rules and forms can change — always check the latest information on the Swedish Board of Agriculture's page on growing hemp.
Why is hemp grown?
For fibre, seed and cannabinoids, and as a hardy crop in the rotation (see what is hemp and the history of hemp).
Frequently asked questions
Is it legal to grow hemp in Sweden? Yes, approved industrial hemp varieties below 0.3 % THC, with certified seed and an application for farm support to the Swedish Board of Agriculture.
Do you need a permit? You must meet the variety, seed and declaration requirements and apply for farm support; check the current rules with the Swedish Board of Agriculture.
Is all hemp cultivation legal? No, only approved varieties below the THC limit.
Sources: Swedish Board of Agriculture — Growing hemp; the EU common catalogue of varieties of agricultural plant species. Further reading: Is CBD legal in Sweden?.