United States: Trump’s Potential Support for Legalisation, Record $33B in 2024 Sales Expected, and Evolving Consumer Demographics

Trump may continue Biden’s cannabis policies, supporting legalisation and research, while prioritising public safety and respect for state regulations, focusing on opiates epidemic. Some believe Trump’s evolving stance on cannabis reform raises hopes for legalisation during presidency.

• Trump’s newly appointed Chief of Staff has cannabis lobbying experience; Robert Kennedy Jr. as Department of Health chief could promote alternative medicine, cannabis and psychedelics; Matt Gaetz as Attorney General boosted cannabis stocks, but nomination collapsed.
  • However other appointees are not so favourable, such as FDA chief Marty Makary, who sees cannabis as gateway drug with mental health risks.
  • DEA chief not yet clear after decriminalisation supporter Florida sheriff was pulled off. DEA denies conspiring with prohibitionist group SAM, denying unlawful communications.
• Senate Farm Bill redefines “hemp” and introduces a new definition for “industrial hemp” with relaxed regulations, despite maintaining the 0.3% THC threshold.
• California risks excise tax hike from 15% to 19% on July 1, 2025, unless lawmakers intervene.
  • Lawmakers urged to stop monopolism in cannabis industry amid consolidation and failures
  • Metrc launches pilot program of Retail ID, combining QR codes and inventory barcodes to streamline cannabis product labelling and inventory management.
  • Attorney General announced the eradication of 774,829 cannabis plants worth $353 million and 282 arrests statewide.
  • Sacramento approved a plan for up to 40 smoking lounges at existing dispensaries.
• Texas Attorney General sues to overturn Dallas cannabis decriminalisation law approved by 67% of voters, citing state law conflicts—previous attempts in Houston and San Marcos failed.
• New York state has been sued by Cannabis Farmers Alliance due to financial distress caused by poor cannabis regulation and insufficient retail—97% of small farmers operate at a loss.
• Pennsylvania health official blocks proposals for nurse practitioners and podiatrists to recommend medical cannabis due to state law constraints.
• In Kentucky, 150 doctors can issue medical cannabis recommendations from December 1st.
• Maryland and Arkansas rejected petitions to use cannabis for treating female orgasm disorder.
• Maine increases cannabis audits after three recalls for contamination.

Retail cannabis sales in the U.S. reached $2.8 billion in October, marking a new record for the month: projections of $33 billion this year, $55 billion by 2030 with 5,000 new dispensaries.

• U.S. cannabis business licenses declined 1% in Q3 2024, with established markets like California losing more licenses than emerging markets like New York and Ohio—New York’s total increased by 64% from Q2, and Michigan added over 330 licenses in Q3.
• Shifting demographics of cannabis use: Rising among adults and seniors; declining among teens; narrowing gender gap; increased daily consumption and popularity of edibles.
  • Young women now lead cannabis consumption, prompting companies to adapt. Health benefits, relaxation, and pain relief are primary motivations for women.
  • Pre-roll consumption is rising, with 82% of users purchasing them, favouring full-gram and multi-pack options. Infused pre-rolls sales of $1.75 billion, potency top preference.
  • Home growing is increasing, with 66% of growers feeling empowered by relaxed legal restrictions: 61% of home growers are women, 41% describe it as stress-relieving.
  • Colorado dispensaries are seeing appetite for less potent cannabis: more functional products, lower dosage products.
• Green Wednesday of Thanksgiving week saw median store revenue jump 73.6%, profit by 52.5%. Election Day 2024 saw a 6% spike in sales, led by a +14.2% in THC-infused beverages.
• California cannabis farmers praise 2024 harvest season for improved yields due to favorable climate, increased demand for sun-grown, craft flower prices stabilised around $500/lb.
  • Glass House Brands reported record Q3 2024 revenue of $63.8 million, up 32% year-over-year, with significant biomass growth and cost of just $103 per pound.
  • Delivery platform Eaze secured $10 million funding to reopen and expand operations across four states, focusing on sustainable growth and innovation.
  • Ispire Technology reported a $5.6M net loss, with revenue falling 8.2% to $39.3 million in Q1 despite expanded product lines and distribution agreement with ANDS for new markets.
  • Jay-Z’s cannabis brand Monogram and parent company TPCO face financial collapse after rapid spending of $575 million and poor market performance.
• Michigan cannabis sales growth continues to slow down: rose 0.6% in October, totaling $268.6 million, but medical fell 78.3% year-over-year; average flower price dropped 6.0% sequentially.
• Missouri‘s cannabis market reached $1.4 billion in less than two years, surpassing Arizona and Colorado: millennials represent 40% of shoppers, flower dominates, over 20,000 employees.
  • However, intoxicating hemp products are thriving in the state, prompting legislative battles between hemp and marijuana industries for regulation.
• Washington D.C. has high pot consumption; 33% of adults use cannabis, second only to Vermont’s 34.3%, with shops exploiting “gifting” loophole to sell despite recent crackdown.
• Massachussets dispensary receives first shipment by water after legal victory allows transport.
• Georgia‘s medical cannabis program reaches 25,000 patients, more dispensaries opening.
• In Tennessee, U.S. Department of Energy grants $8.4 million to Hempitecture for sustainable cannabis-based building materials and automobile parts production.
• LeafLink acquires Leaf Trade, combined marketplace expected to facilitate $9 billion in GMV.
• Trulieve reported $284 million revenue in Q3, launched adult-use sales in Ohio, and supported Florida’s adult-use campaign with $48 million—but Florida’s failure caused stock to plummet.

MAPS secured FDA clearance for smoked cannabis PTSD trial, MJP2, after three years of negotiation, involving 320 Veterans across three states.

• Study analyses demographics and primary qualifying conditions of 81,433 medical cannabis patients across 32 US states in 2022: chronic pain, anxiety, and PTSD are the top three.
• Significant improvement in health-related quality of life of new medical users.
• Cannabis use among cancer patients linked to increased symptom severity.
• A review showed potentrial of cannabis-based medicines for peripheral neuropathy.
• Cannabis use does not significantly affect breast reduction surgery outcomes.
• Inadequate tools for detecting cannabis impairment for workplace and roadside assessments.
• Study evaluated maternal cannabis use in early pregnancy—no association to child autism.
• Softrim™ robotics-based trimming system launched at MJBizCon 2024.
• Lowtemp Industries launched a Concentrate Dispenser, increasing extract packaging efficiency.

Germany: Christian Democrats Vow to Backtrack Cannabis Legalisation as Elections Loom, but Coalitions are Likely

The call for a snap election next February has prompted the CDU to strengthen its anti-cannabis position: however fully reversing course on legalisation seems difficult, as despite their likely win, christian-democrats stand to need the parliamentary support of current coalition member parties.

• Government drug commissioner hosted a ministerial-level summit with pro-adult-cannabis European countries: Netherlands, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Luxembourg, Malta.
• CDU cites increased illicit market activity as the reason to backtrack legalisation, while Health Minister defends regulation and SPD and Greens push for pilot projects.
  • German Medical Association calls for reversing legalisation, while also advocating for a sugar tax and demanding more taxes on tobacco and a ban on disposables.
  • Plans for pilot projects involving the commercial distribution in cities like Frankfurt, Hanover and Wiesbaden are now in jeopardy.
  • CDU’s cannabis policy faces criticism for being too strict: don’t we want more freedom? Half-hearted legalisation is inadequate, failing to reduce the illegal market.
  • Violence in Cologne, claimed by some as an evidence of Mocro-Maffia expanding after legalisation, has been found to have originated in a local gang: illicit market is not growing thanks to home growing and medical access, industry sources claim.
• SPD accuses Schleswig-Holstein‘s government of blocking cannabis law implementation, harming citizens’ interests and neglecting addiction services support.
  • Munich cannabis club’s license rejected due to errors; chairman accusses of obstruction.
  • Wiesbaden club, in Hesse, faces bureaucratic challenges; no permits issued yet.
  • Dortmund‘s first cannabis club receives permission to grow cannabis, starting January 2025.
  • Thuringia’s Cannabis Social Club Erfurt receives permission to grow cannabis.
  • Multiple clubs licensed in North-Rhine Westphalia, clubs must pay €1,150 permit fee.
  • Two cannabis clubs in Baden-Württemberg received permission to cultivate cannabis.
• Düsseldorf court upheld that distribution of CBD oral care sprays is not permitted, deeming them subject to food regulations despite cosmetic claims.

Some 40 tonnes of medical cannabis have been imported this year so far, 20.1 tonnes in Q3 2024, nearly doubling from Q2—market on track to import over 60 tonnes this year.

• Cantourage reports €30M sales in first 9 months of the year, €1.4 million EBITDA in Q3 2024.
  • Reports €5.5 million sales in October, expects to close year at over €40 million in revenue.
• Canify claims to have achieved break-even, plans to expand in a growing EU market.
  • It will launch Tetra Pharm’s Xatepa sublingual spray in December.
  • Canify partners with Alveon to develop an Smart Dose Vaporizer.
  • It has reached an agreement with North Macedonian New Garden Pharma.
• Aurora has grown cannabis in Leuna since 2022, but over half had to be burned: monthly production of 80 kg but Federal agency ordered only 11 kg, Aurora can now market surplus cannabis as “Indimed” directly to pharmacies.
  • Tilray launched its first German-grown medical cannabis products under expanded license.
• Portuguese Gro-Vida secures supply agreement with Canopy Growth in Germany.
• Synbiotic acquires majority stake in greensby, creates comprehensive platform connecting patients, pharmacies, and telemedicine providers, offering updated inventory.
• BaFin suspects Swiss Cannerald of offering profit participation certificates in Germany without the required securities information sheet—possible fines up to €70k.

A study in 18 countries found that COVID-19 increased cannabis use among regular users, with 28.2% reporting higher consumption during the pandemic.

Canada: Companies Report Double-Digit Revenue Increases and Launch Pre-Rolls, Small Oral Solid Dosage Forms

 In the aftermath of the proposal of up to 175% tariffs by Israel on Canadian imports, Canadian Cannabis Council questions allegations and the methodology; while Global Affairs Canada reviews Israel’s findings for WTO compliance—however, Israel not likely to impose them just yet.

• Surrey, the second largest city in B.C. approved cannabis retail, initiating rezoning for 12 stores, enhancing opportunities for landlords and attracting businesses and consumers.
• Six years after legalisation 62% of Canadians support it; however only 51% of cannabis consumers acquire all products from licensed retailers; significant regional variations exist.
  • About 1/3 of adults u45 used cannabis last year; daily use is 10% for under 45, 5% for older.
• Canada Revenue Agency wrote off nearly C$5 million in uncollectable cannabis excise tax by 12 companies, affecting multiple Ontario companies as of September 2024.

Quebec State-owned retailer achieved net revenue of $29.4 million in Q2 2024-2025, up 15% from the previous year, with sales of $173.7 million, 35 tonnes of cannabis sold, and 2 new stores.

• SQDC to introduce cannabis vapes by fall 2025, offering safer alternatives to unregulated options available now—25% of users vape in Quebec despite a provincial ban since 2019.

Financial results announced this quarter include:

• Village Farms reported 20% sales growth, driven by Canadian Cannabis and International Medicinal Cannabis sales increases, as cultivation commenced in the Netherlands.
• Cronos Q3 2024 net revenue increased by 38% year-over-year to $34.3 million, asSpinach® became Canada’s top-selling cannabis brand.
• Rubicon Organics reported net revenue of $13.5 million for Q3 2024, a 34% increase year-over-year, with successful launch of vape products achieving 55% distribution in six months.
• Ayurcann reported record sales growth of $14,760,268 in Q1 2025, a 25% increase from last year with gross margins of 38%, and adjusted EBITDA of $290,505.
• MediPharm Labs reports Q3 2024 net revenue of $9.8M, a 15% increase from Q3 2023, driven by international sales growth, through the launch of 11 new products in Q3 2024.
• Avicanna Q3 2024 revenue reached $6.3 million, a 75% increase in nine-month revenue compared to 2023, selling 45,126 units in Q3, a 42% increase from the same period in 2023.
• Simply Solventless reports nearly $5 million net revenue for Q3 2024, a 75% yoy increase, with gross profits of almost $2 million increasing 72%, after completing acquisition of CannMart.

Operational updates and product launches announced this quarter include:

• Dutch medical cannabis cultivation pioneer Bedrocan is returning to Canada, resuming operations in Ontario with a new medical cannabis production license starting in early 2025.
• Canopy Growth launches Claybourne’s Frosted Flyers Infused Pre-Rolls in Canada, offering five distinct flavours, seeking to tap into 9.6% infused pre-roll segment, growing 94% since 2022.
• Organigram launches Edison Sonics gummies in two flavours, using FAST™ technology for faster onset and improved cannabinoid delivery in Canada.
• Sensi Brands launched “Chillows by Potluck™,” a THC-infused pouch for discreet, smoke-free consumption with rapid onset effects available in four flavours.
• Tilray Brands announces new premium, ultra-potent strain ‘Platinum Pavé‘ from Broken Coast.
• Pure Sunfarms launches The Canna Czar twax blunt, honouring legacy craftsmanship.
• High Tide expands Cabana Club membership to the US, EU, and UK, with new offerings including snacks and confectionary, complementing hemp-derived CBD and accessories.

Australia’s Biortica Agrimed collaborates with Université Laval to enhance cannabis genetics using multi-omics and AI until 2029.

• Grodan and F1 SeedTech completed a successful cultivation trial, achieving high yield and resource efficiency with stone wool.
• In Ontario, cannabis legalisation reduced acute care visits among schizophrenia patients, particularly during the initial phase of legalisation.
• Review highlights risks of cannabis-infused beverages, more research needed on their acute and long-term effects.
• Using cannabis as required (as opposed to scheduled use) is more common among trauma-exposed individuals, linked to higher use frequency and potential dependence risks.
• Brock University received a Health Canada license for cannabis analysis.

Australia: Increased Regulatory Scrutiny as Medical Cannabis Sales Poised to Surpass A$1 Billion in 2024.

Psychiatrists ask TGA for cannabis to be removed from SAS Scheme and for THC limits to be imposed following high prescribing rates in Queensland.

• This follows an intensification of scrutiny on the sector in recent months, which has led some industry stakeholders to ask for the creation of an industry regulation body under the TGA.
  • Latest scandal includes company targeting veterans which kept sending products to a veteran with mental health problems despite him claiming to be addicted.
    • In the last financial year, the Department of Veterans Affairs funded A$35.99 million for 8,455 veterans, rejecting 6% of applications.
• ODC plans to restrict import permits for companies not shipping as much medicinal cannabis as they applied for, impacting market competition in Australia.
• TGA has rejected applications to register vape batteries, claiming lack of ARTG registration, despite accepting applications for vape cartridges.
• Senate legalisation vote promoted by the Greens was blocked by Labor and Coalition.

Australian market growth highlighted in new report by Penington Institute: 2.9 million units, A$402 million worth of medical cannabis sold in H1, full year expected to surpass A$1 billion mark.

• The report highlights that 46% of Australians have used cannabis, emphasises need to legalise adult-use to tackle A$5 billion illicit market.

Company news from this month include:

• Joint Venture of Vitura and Crisi Group acquires the assets of Releaf, after the clinic and chain entered administration, in a deal involving cash, stock and debt condonation.
• ECS Botanics reports strong B2C growth, launching new ‘OzSun’ brand of organic, affordable products; as it prepares to launch new VESIsorb softgels.
• LGP reported positive cash flow and 37% revenue growth to A$17.5 million in the 6 months leading to September 30 after launch of Indicare brand and portfolio expansion.
• Health House is offered for sale for only CAD$3million after no buyer is secured.
• Cann Group raised approximately A$2 million but fell short of $6.25m target.
• Phytoca undergoes rebranding, divides portfolio into new Core, Craft, and Legacy ranges.
• Puro NZ secures deal with Heyday to distribute organic THC, CBD, CBG in Australia.

Cymra Life Sciences completed a phase II trial showing significant pain reduction for chronic neck and back pain using Cybis® THC:CBD oil.

• CBN increases sleep time in rats, enhancing NREM and REM sleep while reducing wakefulness, indicating potential as a sleep aid—however repeated administration lead to tolerance.
• Cannabinoids, especially CBD, show significant antibacterial activity, particularly combined with antibiotics, enhancing antibacterial efficacy against resistant bacteria strains.
• Global study in 18 countries found increased indoor cannabis cultivation compared to outdoor among small farmers, despite widespread use of potentially harmful pesticides and PGRs.

Brazil: Supreme Court Allows First Commercial Cultivation Permit as Market Reaches 672k Patients and R$853M in Sales

Historic decision of Supreme Court authorises company DNA Soluções to cultivate medicinal cannabis, urging regulation within six months to facilitate local production and reduce costs of CBD.

• However, medical cannabis industries express skepticism about local cultivation’s effect on medicine prices due to high production costs.
  • ANVISA included a cannabis monograph in the Brazilian Pharmacopoeia: while no regulations to allow cultivation are expected, it might be used in intermediate processes.
  • Agricultural Ministry finalises a technical note supporting industrial hemp regulations, awaiting approval from Minister Carlos Fávaro amid legislative progress.
  • State-owned Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa) aims to create a germplasm bank to enhance economic potential of cultivation.
• Supreme Court is evaluating ANVISA’s prohibition on cannabis sales in compounding pharmacies, impacting the medicinal cannabis market in Brazil.
• Pharmacy professionals will need to include data for medicinal cannabis in a national system for controlled products (SNGPC) from 2025.
• Recife and Pernambuco approve distribution of medical CBD through the public health system.

As many as 672,000 patients accessed medical cannabis in Brazil in 2024, generating sales of R$853 million ($140M), a new report finds. Over 2,180 products are available, including oils and capsules from both local manufacturing and named-patient imports.

• 313,000 patients obtain imported products, with 72,000 new import authorisations in H1 2024.
  • Despite pharma players petition to revoke RDC 660 allowing named-patient imports, data shows better affordability with imports, costing R$ 0.26 per CBD mg compared to R$ 0.41.
• 212,000 patients source one of the 28 approved products in the pharmacies.
• 147,000 patients get access through 40 patients’ associations.
• Pilot project in São Vicente supplies free cannabis-based oil treatment to autistic children.

United Kingdom: Families Demand Expanded Access, Companies Expand Operations and NHS Funds Clinical Trial

Families demand NHS access to medical cannabis, citing insufficient prescriptions and barriers: only 50 children can access private prescriptions due to a shortage of willing paediatric prescribers.

• Industry body advocates for transfer of medical cannabis regulation from Home Office to Department of Health for improved patient care and access to prescriptions.
• Support of legalisation among Labour Party members is high: economic benefits, including tax revenue and job creation, influencing UK debates, together with public health protection.
• FSA and FSS published safety assessments for CBD novel food applications; three applications received positive safety assessments; recommendations to Ministers expected next summer.

Curaleaf processes 250kg of medical cannabis monthly in Sunderland, with exports tripling in the past year, serving 16,000 clients monthly.

• Alternaleaf UK becomes the first medical clinic to advertise in the London Underground.
• Cannim has opened Lumir Clinic in the UK, located at the University of Birmingham.
• Hellenic Dynamics faces a shareholder liquidation petition.
• Approval granted for GrowLab Organics to build a medicinal cannabis facility on the Isle of Man, creating 60 jobs.

Ananda Developments launches two major UK clinical trials co-funded by NIHR and NHS to evaluate safety and efficacy of MRX2 and MRX2T for refractory epilepsy in children and adults.

• A Centre for Reproductive Health review contributed by Ananda’s scientists shows promise of CBD for endometriosis.
• Oxford Cannabinoid Technologies announces R&D project with Hypatia AI to enhance drug discovery using AI technology by analyzing over 30,000 scientific papers against proprietary cannabinoid data to develop non-addictive pain medications.
• A study by Curaleaf’s UK Medical Cannabis Registry shows improved symptoms and quality of life in generalysed anxiety disorder patients, with better outcomes with oils than flower.

Israel: Health Ministry Clashes with Economy Ministry over Cannabis Tariffs as Patient Numbers Continue to Drop

The Health Ministry and the Competition Authority disagree with the Commissioner of Trade Levies of the Economy Ministry in its final report of the investigation.

• The final version of the investigation reduced some of its claims of Canadian imports flooding the market, but upheld the same flawed methodology to recommend tariffs of 2%-175%.
  • Criticism includes potential harms to patients with price increases, a negative impact on Israeli exports, and legal claims: issue likely to be resolved in Courts.
• “Green Shield” patient campaign advocates for medical cannabis rights in Parliament, asking legislative changes to expand access, curtailed by recent reforms.
• Iranian hackers stole 64GB of data from Israeli cannabis companies IMC and Pharmazone, claiming to expose illegal activities.

Israeli market continues to shrink: Medical cannabis patients have further decreased—now down to 115,072 from the highest figure of 140,000 in January 2024.

• Imports have instead returned to normal dynamic with 1.6 tonnes imported in October: total figures for the year likely to surpass those of 2023, but much lower than the 24 tonnes of 2022.

Rehabilitation nation: Initiatives focused on addressing the rising mental health issues among Israelis post-conflict. SyqeAir creates an online questionnaire for PTSD symptoms.

France: Medical Cannabis Program at Risk of Closure in 2025 as Government Faces Budget Constraints

Budgetary problems in France risk leaving 1800 patients without access: doctors, industry and patients urge government to extend the medical cannabis experiment, in risk of stoppage in 2025.

• An evaluation report of the experimentation drafted by the General Health Directorate last year which was recently obtained by industry association UIVEC admits statistically significant improvements in pain management over time thanks to medical cannabis.
• France has the highest cannabis consumption in Europe, yet maintains strict drug laws and significant anti-cannabis enforcement costs, amid the proposal by Prime Minister Michel Barnier to increase taxes and cut spending to curb government deficit.
  • Legalising cannabis could generate €3.4bn for the government, reduce crime, and create 40,000 to 80,000 legal jobs.
• New industry campaign “CannabiSanté” proposes 10 key measures for sustainable access to medical cannabis in France before the experiment ends: focusing on training healthcare professionals, creating a structured health pathway, and establishing the local industry.

France’s hemp cultivation area could double in the next five years, thanks in no small part to its leadership in processing infraestructure.

• Celebrity rapper Booba gets involved in yet another venture in the cannabis sector: PRT Lab, offering premium CBD flowers, resins, and stylish accessories.

Aelis Farma reports positive Phase 1/2 study results for AEF0217, a CB1 inhibitor, in improving cognitive function in young adults with Down syndrome.

South Africa: Trade Ministry Takes Over Cannabis Master Plan, Raises Hopes of Clearer Rules for 2025 as Private Clubs and Medical Exemptions Expand in the Legal Grey Area⁠

Cannabis master plan moved to Industry and trade ministry: new comprehensive legislation for legal trade expected next year to address industry regulation and financing.

• One of the proposed measures includes raising hemp THC limit from 0.2% to 2% to support local growers and align with climatic conditions.
• Haze Club settled appeal; preventing court ruling on legality of Dagga Private Clubs.

Despite lack of regulatory clarity on Section 21 exemption to access medical cannabis products, Synergy Wellness seek to provide compliant access, with significant growth in patient enrolments.

• Eastern Cape Premier urges urgent regulatory framework for Medigrow’s R1 billion cannabis investment in Coega to boost economy with 30,000 (sic) jobs.
• Despite lack of regulatory clarity, clubs are spreading in South Africa. Authorities warn that selling remains a criminal offense with severe penalties, notwithstanding decriminalisation.
  • GrowOneAfrica‘s self-regulation model supports cannabis cultivation in private clubs.

South Africa’s Cannabis Research Institute sponsors a clinical trial on medicinal cannabis for opioid addiction treatment and pain management, in collaboration with Releaf Cannabis E-Clinics.

Denmark: Medical Cannabis Programme Becomes Permanent with Industry-Boosting Adjustments

Government plans to make medical cannabis prescription scheme permanent after significant increase in prescriptions and positive patient outcomes since 2018.

• An agreement of political parties in both government and opposition will see improvements to the current pilot project which could boost current industry and 1,800-strong patient base:
  • Enhancing the guidance issued to prescribers by the Medicine’s Agency.
  • Facilitate production by limiting the list of banned pesticides.
  • Allowing the export of seeds to licensed entities.
  • Permitting the import of APIs from other European countries for further processing.

STENOCARE exits Danish production by ending its cultivation facility lease, shifts focus to trading medical cannabis in a variety of markets.

• DanCann Pharma reports Q1-Q3 2024 growth in medicinal cannabis prescriptions and sales, increasing to DKK 6.41 million ($0.9M).

Cannabis users showed less cognitive decline compared to nonusers over 44 years in a study of 5162 Danish men: age of initiation and years of frequent cannabis use didn’t affect it either.

Poland: Market Adapts to New Prescription Rules, Major Product Launches of 25% THC

First permits for commercial cultivation have been issued—however, there’s a long road ahead before the first domestically-produced products are commercialised at home or abroad.

• There’s hopes local production could help drive down prices, which are among the highest in Europe due to strict restrictions on supply and mandatory product registration.
• A parliamentary team for the decriminalisation of cannabis has been formed with MPs of the ruling coalition, seeking to agree on legalisation measures, likely to include home growing.

Industry is dealing with the aftermath of the ban on remote prescriptions: initiatives to facilitate in-person consultations are spreading. In October, before the new restrictions, Polish patients purchased 90,388 packs worth PLN 42.6 million (US$10.4million).

• Kliniki Konopne launched to help patients find nearby prescribers.
• Canopy has launched a new 25% THC variety under the Krypton registration: OG Deluxe.
• Tilray’s 18% THC varieties, including Rockstar, Island Sweet Skunk, and Galaxy Walker are returning to Polish pharmacies in December.
• Cantourage 25% THC Mac 1, grown in British Columbia by Miracle Valley, will be available in Polish pharmacies starting December 2024.

Argentina: as Central Government Introduces Regulatory Hurdles, Provinces Roll Out Medical Programmes

Federal judge declares unconstitutional the training requirements for doctors prescribing medicinal cannabis in recent government reforms of the REPROCANN.

• New resolution of the cannabis agency ARICCAME prioritises industrial hemp licenses, excluding medicinal cannabis in new authorisations, raising concerns for existing companies.
  • Delays in granting licenses raise concerns among industry stakeholders: President of Cannabis Chamber says $500 million investments and 1,000 jobs are on the line.
• Buenos Aires launched a Provincial Therapeutic Cannabis Program, presenting a guide for health teams on therapeutic cannabis use and care.

In Patagonian province of Chubut, Whale Leaf Farm begins supplying pharmacies with medicinal cannabis while awaiting new provincial law regulations.

• In Misiones, MisioPharma implements a new production model for medicinal cannabis oil, importing CBD isolate to reduce costs, while continuing research on local cannabis cultivation.

New Zealand: Export-Led Growth and New Product Launches

Helius Therapeutics launched new products: Amelia, its first locally produced flower with 15% THC, and a Sativex equivalent spray with 27mg THC and 25mg CBD.

• Puro inked a new agreement in Australia with Heyday to supply organic THC, CBD, CBG.
• RUA Biosciences reports record quarter sales led by New Zealand and Australia; new product launches in Germany and the UK expected to drive further growth.
• Medical Kiwi, now Aether Pacific Pharmaceuticals, entered voluntary administration due to significant financial losses, amounting to NZ$5.8 million in fiscal year 2022-23.

Latest New Zealand Drug Trends Survey highlights that cannabis availability remains high, helped by illicit market price declines and accessibility constraints on medical cannabis.

Netherlands: Amsterdam Plans Coffee Shop Redistribution

Amsterdam prepares ban on new coffee shops, hotel beds in the city centre to curb over-tourism. As many as 90 of the city’s 165 coffee shops are based in the central district of the city: municipal council wants to facilitate moving to other neighbourhoods to decompress centre.

Price increase for medical cannabis products will be effective on January 1, 2025, due to rising production costs; prices set at €33.40 per 5 grams.

• Village Farms wholly-owned subsidiary Leli Holland has commenced cultivation, plans to begin sales to coffeeshops of the experiment in Q1 2025.

Study on cannabis and oxycodone for fibromyalgia pain showed no significant pain relief or reduced adverse effects, while 25% of participants dropped out due to adverse events.

Colombia: Legalisation Bill Faces Third Failure as Companies Progress with International Trade

Cannabis legalisation bill in Colombia likely to fail again for the third time due to insufficient time for approval in Congress this legislature.

Avicanna delivered proprietary topical products, including 3% CBD cream and 2% CBD/0.5% CBG gel to a European pharmaceutical company as part of an exclusive supply agreement.

• Allied Corp. shipped 30kg of THC-based medical cannabis to Blossom Pharmaceuticals in Portugal, initiating a UK supply contract of 200kgs, €360k per year.
• URACOL initiates a 700-hectare fibre hemp project in Cauca Valley, involving 75 families and collaboration with the National University of Colombia.

Portugal: Medical Cannabis Exports to Germany Surge

Portuguese producers benefiting from German medical cannabis boom, exporting 7803kg since the beginning of the year, on track to doubling last year’s amounts.

• Precious Wonder indoor facility obtains cultivation permit by INFARMED.
• Infarmed suspended sales of Webotanix CBD OIL 7% and 15% due to prohibited leaf extracts.

Avextra launches a breeding program for proprietary varieties with specific cannabinoid and terpene profiles for pharmaceutical use: Over two years, 5,000 seeds will be phenohunted.

• Review explores the entourage effect of cannabis terpenes, highlighting their potential therapeutic benefits and need for further clinical trials.
• Survey finds that 13% of Portuguese youth used cannabis in the last 30 days; boys show higher usage rates than girls. Online cannabis purchases increased, with 6% of youth buying it online in the past year,despite use trends showing a slight decline since 2015.

Spain: Sector Awaits Upcoming Medicinal Regulation

Spain is one of the largest producers of medicinal cannabis in Europe, with 12 operational, licensed companies: sector expects tailwinds from upcoming, limited medical legalisation.

• Ondara will import cannabis cuttings from Canada to restart production in Soria.
• Leon-based CBD firm WeBotanix launches in 50 El Corte Inglés stores across the nation.

Historical review of the use of hemp extract for gastrointestinal distress in Barcelona from the nineteenth century until 1939, highlighting the scope of medicinal applications before prohibition.

Italy: Farmers Protest Security Bill Risking the Loss of 30,000 Jobs

Farmers and entrepreneurs protest against government’s security bill, threatening 3,000 hemp companies in Italy, risking 30,000 jobs and half a billion euros in revenue.

• No provisions for cannabis patients included in new highway code, which includes license revocation for positive narcotics tests.

MYCB1 has received authorisation to market its standardised extracts in Italy, marking a significant milestone for the company.

Ukraine: Medical Cannabis Market Takes Shape with 80 Companies Interested Despite War Challenges

Deputy Health Minister claims regulatory system in Ukraine is prepared for market entry, progressively more harmonised with the EU despite halving of clinical trials due to war.

• According to the Deputy Health Minister 80 companies have shown an interest in medical cannabis; of which 10 would want to produce it in Ukraine.
• Ukraine includes HHC, HHC-O, HHC-P, THC-P, HHCH in the list of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances effective immediately.

Switzerland: Recreational Experiments Expand

Basel city Weed Care study extended until January 2027, introducing new product forms like vape oils and tinctures, available to about 400 participants.

• Alpina Pharma introduces three new cannabis strains for Swiss pilot projects: Cannalope Haze, Orange Bud, and Hash Plant.

Czech Republic: Government Waters Down Recreational Reform, but Facilitates Medical Access to Chronic Pain Patients

Ministry of Health to simplify cannabis prescriptions for chronic pain, allowing general practitioners to prescribe it: patients expected to surge from current 8,000 to tens of thousands.

• Czech government proposes legalising three cannabis plants and 50 grams at home; concerns over practical enforcement and penalties raised, experts demand more clear rules.

Russia: State Involvement in Juicy Fields Scam Surfaces

Vitaly Markevich, wanted for billion-dollar fraud in the Juicy Fields case, remains free in Russia despite international arrest warrant and police investigation challenges.

• Recent claims of political protection of scammers are surfacing, as public prosecutors in Madrid, Berlin seek to pursue charges.
• Swedish lawyer that sought to represent victims accused of double dealings and financial fraud.

Uruguay: New President to Maintain Pro-Cannabis Policy

New left-wing president not expected to substantially alter consensus-driven cannabis policy: however, more lenient attitude to criminal proceedings might ensue.

New report highlights Uruguay’s stable political environment, favourable regulatory framework to attract national and foreign investment in the cannabis industry.

Ireland: New Left-Leaning Coalition Could Tackle Drug Reform

Cannabis reform was an issue in Ireland’s 2024 General Election, despite party commitments lacking clarity on implementation.

• Fianna Fáil’s manifesto proposes decriminalising drug possession for personal use.
  • Together with Fine Gael, Labour and Social Democrats it is expected to form a left-oriented government, which could see progress in cannabis agenda.

Luxembourg Restricts Medical Cannabis Access: High-THC Flower Prescriptions to End in 2025

The government plans to restrict access to medical cannabis following on the footsteps of France. From January 1, 2025, patients can no longer be prescribed high-THC dried flower.

• Minister of Health quotes a 2022 evaluation report that found instances of abuse, claiming effectiveness of treatment is not conclusive and difficulties with dosage and administration.

Turkey: After Approving Cultivation for API, Now Joins European Medicines Quality-Control Network

Following the recent approval of cannabis cultivation for the production of APIs, Turkey has now become a member of the OMCL, a EQDM network to ensure the quality of medicines.

Costa Rica: Proposed Legalisation Bill Declared Unconstitutional

Supreme Court declared recreational cannabis bill proposal as unconstitutional, citing violations of international treaties ratified by Costa Rica, despite support by certain judges.

Norway: New Balanced Product Approved for Sale

Stenocare’s Astrum 10-10 product with under 1% THC has been approved for sale in Norway.

Zimbabwe: Further Medicinal CBD Products Launched

Ivory Medical launched CannaQure, a medicinal cannabis product line in Zimbabwe, offering alternative solutions for patient wellness and symptom relief.

Moldova: Government Approves Hemp Regulations

Moldovan government approved regulations for farmers to cultivate industrial hemp of registered varieties for seeds, fiber, and oil production.

China: Review of CBG Finds Therapeutic Potential

A review of the therapeutic potential of CBG shows potential in treating neurodegenerative diseases, inflammation, and cancer through various molecular mechanisms.

Chile: Prescription-Holders Protected from Roadside Tests Prosecution

Chilean medical cannabis users will not be prosecuted for positive roadside drug tests if they present a medical prescription.

Botswana: New President Eyes Cannabis to Boost Economy

New president of Botswana focuses on cannabis exports, renewable energy, and tourism to diversify Botswana’s economy beyond diamond dependence.

Andorra: Outrage over 4-year Sentence for CBD Possession

Criminal case sparks outrage: young man sentenced to 4 years for possessing 565 grams of CBD; however he is now out of prison on provisional freedom—retailers demand legal reforms.

Fiji: Government Drafts Cannabis Legalisation Bill

Fiji government progressing on legislation to establish a legal cannabis industry, according to Trade Minister, consultations likely completed between April and June.