United States: Florida Legalisation Fails, DEA Hearing Delayed, and State-Level Changes Reshape Industry

Florida‘s ballot measure to legalise recreational cannabis fails to meet the required 60% supermajority for approval, despite 57% vote in favour and support by President Elect Trump.

• Majority of cannabis consumers favoured Kamala Harris over Trump, despite both candidates supporting legalisation—uncertain impact of Trump election on legislative process; as Kamala blamed DEA bureaucracy for cannabis rescheduling delays and House Democrats push DEA to swiftly reclassify cannabis from schedule I to schedule III.
• DEA hearing on cannabis rescheduling delayed until 2025 due to insufficient witness information, initial hearing still scheduled for December 2.
  • Village Farms selected to testify at DEA hearing on rescheduling.
• Despite California‘s Governor emergency ban, smoke shops continue selling hemp THC products. Ban sparks legal battles, raising age limits and regulatory concerns. Cheech and Chong join six hemp companies in suing Department of Public Health, rejected by judge.
• Texas Compassionate Use Program prescriptions grew significantly from 2019-2021 but slowed in 2022 and 2023 due to competition from hemp market.
• New York‘s cannabis market sees growth, with over 1,300 licenses issued and 67% of users buying from legal vendors. Social equity fund criticised due to managers earning $1.7 million despite failing to meet goals.
• Florida’s results was a major disappointment of MSO Trulieve, which spent $145 million on the campaign citing $5-6 billion market potential: Stock market cap dipped to only 3x EBITDA.
• Nebraska legalised medical cannabis; Texas cities of Dallas and Bastrop decriminalised cannabis; while North Dakota and South Dakota reforms failed.
• Kentucky voters approved medical cannabis in over 100 jurisdictions, with all measures passing.
• New Jersey‘s hemp industry faces uncertainty after a court ruling upheld a law banning sales.
• Utahns support legalising adult cannabis by 50%, a poll in the conservative state has shown.
• Arkansas Supreme Court ruled votes on medical cannabis proposal are not valid.
• Delaware legalised banking for cannabis businesses, facilitating access to financial services.
• U.S. Army bans delta-8 THC, warns against poppyseed foods, amid rising THC test positives.

U.S. cannabis industry expected to require $65.6B to $130.7B in growth capital over the next decade for business expansion as retail sales are projected to show strong growth.

• Michigan sales are beginning to falter, with September sales falling 9.7% and 1.5% year-over-year. Sales had surged due to low flower prices, driven by increased licenses and oversupply.
• In California, Top 18 retail chains control under 20% of licenses, indicating significant market fragmentation in the industry. Licensed canopy has decreased to under 1,250 acres for the first time since 2019.
  • Eaze Technologies, the San Francisco cannabis delivery service, plans to shut down operations.
• Florida unlicensed smoke shops surge; owners oppose marijuana legalisation amendment, fearing it benefits large companies over small businesses and entrepreneurs.
  • Medical sales have plunged, as operators drastically cut low-THC product sales, focusing on high-THC ahead of failed adult-use legalisation.
  • The Cannabist sold its Florida assets, including 14 dispensaries, to MINT Cannabis and SHANGO for $5 million.
• Ohio‘s adult cannabis sales reached $98.3 million in two months, and $143 million in three months, at about $12M weekly, but demand still lags behind states like Michigan and Missouri.
• Arizona dispensaries announce that adult-use deliveries to begin on November 1. Curaleaf dispensaries sell election-themed cannabis strains named after presidential candidates.
• Minnesota’s THC beverage craze raises questions about future alcohol consumption trends, as cannabis users spend more on alcohol than non-users.
• In New Mexico, Bright Green received a DEA license to grow cannabis and opium poppies for research and pharmaceutical production, raising $15 million to begin operations.
• Canopy Growth completes Wana acquisition, strengthening edible portfolio.
• RIV Capital partners with Nabis to enhance distribution and market presence in New York.

Study explores cannabis use’s impact on physical activity in the US, finding that legal medical cannabis promotes greater physical activity in chronic patients, and even more so on non patients.

• ANANDA Scientific announces a clinical trial for Nantheia™ ATL5 to treat opioid use disorder and chronic pain using CBD and THC.
• Two-thirds of rheumatic patients reported better symptom management with cannabis.
• Neuroprotective potential for treating neurological disorders of lesser-known phytocannabinoids is highlighted by emerging research.
• Clinical trial shows that dronabinol reduces agitation in Alzheimer’s patients by 30%.
• Study reveals cannabis use patterns among cancer patients, highlighting differences in usage, sources, and reasons during active treatment.
• Next-generation modulators of endocannabinoid signaling show promise in pain pathways.
• Legalisation of smokable medical cannabis in Florida led to significant increases in weekly dispensed THC amounts per patient.
• Medical cannabis availability in New York improves mental health for adults aged 65 and older.
• Review compares prevalence of use with methods of consumption: flower most common; concentrates linked to higher use; edibles popular among medical and low-frequency users.
• Sales data analysis identifies diverse THC and CBD dosing patterns among patients, highlighting the need for personalised dosing strategies and standardised guidelines.
• Prenatal tobacco and cannabis co-exposure linked to increased maternal anger/hostility.
• Link between maternal prenatal cannabis use and risk of child autism wasn’t ascertained.
• Study finds no negative effects from simultaneous use of caffeine and CBD.
• Study highlights cannabis identity as a key predictor of home cannabis cultivation.
• Survey reveals friends/family and websites as primary cannabis information sources.
• Texas A&M’s hemp program develops drought-resistant strains for farmers.
• University of Kentucky researchers study prevention of Fusarium head blight in hemp.
• Non-invasive Raman spectroscopy effectively detects nitrogen deficiency in cannabis.

Germany: Pilot Projects in Hamburg and Frankfurt Announced, but Coalition Instability and Shifting Public Opinion Raise Questions about Future Rules

Frankfurt and Hanover plan model projects for regulated adult-use cannabis sales; awaiting federal approval for pilot projects. Study in Frankfurt aims to assess health impacts and consumption behaviour, while Hanover’s project targets 4,000 adults.

• Police report signs of increased cannabis use as public opinion shifts on legalisation. Survey reveals 31% admit to higher cannabis use, while 55% view legalisation as a failure in retrospect. Police union expresses doubts it will curb the black market; sees rise in organised crime activity.
  • Younger respondents show higher consumption rates, with 18% of under 30yo admitting to occasional use. Significant age group differences in support for legalisation persist.
  • Crime rates in Hanover increased by 7.5% in 2023, as police celebrate workload reduction by eliminating the need to report small quantities of cannabis.
  • Federal Government Commissioner calls for a new national strategy for addiction and drug issues in Germany, shifting focus from punishment to prevention and support.
  • Publicly funded REBOUND 2.0 project launches to promote responsible cannabis use among students, addressing legalisation challenges and prevention needs in Germany.
• Since October 17, doctors with specific qualifications can now prescribe medical cannabis without health insurance approval.
  • Pharma industry in Expopharm highlights issues with private prescription practices and market transparency: concerns about lack of clinical evidence and calls for stricter laws.
  • Addiction experts caution against commercial plot projects citing the primacy of a public health approach due to potential health risks and negative outcomes.
• Cannabis social clubs face delays in approvals, high costs, and struggle to curb the black market.
  • Rhineland-Palatinate approved three of 28 applications since legalization began in April, Saarland has five pending cannabis cultivation applications.
  • Cultivation associations in Brandenburg and Thuringia received permits; Altona District Office approves Hamburg‘s first cannabis club for 500 members; First cannabis club in Chemnitz receives approval to grow and sell cannabis, expected to start in 2025.
• Industry Association urges the government to prioritise the Industrial Hemp Liberalisation Act for legal clarity ahead of likely elections next year.
  • Criminal proceedings discontinued against Fulda’s CBD company Green Pioneers; but the company already closed due to the legal disputes.
• German hardware stores remain undecided on selling hemp seeds, with only Bauhaus considering inclusion in their product range. However, local hardware stores are selling high-THC clones. In Bavaria, police seized cannabis seedlings from V-Markt supermarket, as public prosecutor’s office investigates potential trafficking.

The first cannabis harvest of a cultivation club has happened in Ganderkesee: 200 plants distributed to 500 club members.

• Pharmacies report booming medical cannabis business led by online sales: easycannabis.de reports a monthly gross profit of €50,000 from distributing 30kg of medical cannabis.
• Cantourage Group SE reports record Q3 2024 revenue of EUR 13.2 million, reflecting 130% year-over-year growth in booming medical cannabis market.
• Four 20 Pharma launches “Huala” brand, offering affordable options for patients and pharmacies, including greenhouse-grown varieties.
• ADREXpharma and Canadian Mother Labs announce partnership to launch premium cannabis flower brand “Mother Labs” in Germany, starting with 3 high-THC varieties.
• DEMECAN has developed “extract cubes” from its 850mg THC concentrate.
• MYCB1 has signed an agreement with German insurers to expand its market reach.
• Copeia launched the Physicians Experience Platform to enhance cannabis therapy through structured case studies and physician insights.
• Flora Growth partners with Flowzz to launch an e-commerce store.
• Canopy Medical introduces new training modules for pharmacies on medicinal cannabis.

A Sanity Group study reveals 80% of black market cannabis samples contaminated with harmful substances like pesticides, feces, and viruses; emphasising the need for safe cannabis products.

• Albanian delegation visited Merseburg University to explore new research group on potential applications of hemp-based materials.

Canada: Cannabis Market Battles Illicit Competition Amid Industry Consolidation and M&A Wave

 Excessive taxation and fees hinder small cannabis businesses. Analysis suggests that cultivators in British Columbia receive less than 20% of consumer spending, as BC Cannabis Alliance campaigns to reduce the 15% proprietary fee for direct delivery to improve economic viability.

• Ontario cannabis retailers face challenges competing with rising unlicensed stores, affecting sales and highlighting lack of enforcement, as the province commited C$31 million to combat illegal cannabis market with special enforcement teams.
• Industry leaders advocate for a single federal excise stamp to reduce costs and regulatory burdens for cannabis producers.

Ontario cannabis sales exceeded C$1 billion in H1 2024, marking significant increases in volume and value compared to 2023, despite recent slowdown, as license retailers reach 1,721.

• New Brunswick annual report shows a preference shift for convenient formats like vape pens and infused pre-rolls, as sales for the year ended March 31, 2024 reached C$93.8 million, a 12.4% increase.
• SNDL acquires Indiva Group’s assets for C$22.7 million, enhancing its position as Canada’s leading cannabis edibles producer. Nova Cannabis shareholders approved a plan for SNDL to acquire all Nova Shares, pending final court approval.
• Decibel Cannabis acquires AgMedica Bioscience, enhancing export potential to EU GMP markets and projecting $30 million net revenue in 2025. Decibel completed a first closing of a private placement, raising approximately C$2 million to fund the acquisition.
• Tilray Brands reported record Q1 2025 revenue of C$200 million, a 13% year-over-year growth, led by 132% revenue growth of alcohol, as cannabis revenue decreased by 13%. Tilray launched Charlotte’s Web CBD gummies in Canada, available in two flavors.
• Aurora Cannabis reports record Q2 2025 results jumping 29% YoY to C$81.1 million driven by 41% growth in global medical cannabis sales to Germany, Australia, Poland and the UK. US federal court granted approval for $8.05 million settlement in investor lawsuit over stock price inflation allegations, over round-trip, $21.7 million sham transaction with subsidiary Radiant.
• Avant Brands achieved record gross revenue of C$9.6 million in Q3 2024, with 116% increase in export revenue as production reached 3,441kg.
• Ayurcann reports record sales of C$45.3 million for FY 2024, achieving 100% year-over-year growth in the cannabis market, with over 70% retail penetration across Canada.
• Dutch cannabis cultivation pioneer Bedrocan is returning to Canada, acquiring a Scarborough facility and receiving a cultivation license from Health Canada.
• Canopy Growth made a $100 million early prepayment on its term loan, extending maturity to December 2026 and reducing debt.
• Cronos Group’s Spinach® becomes Canada’s best-selling cannabis brand.
• High Tide opens its 70th Canna Cabana dispensary in Ontario.
• Noya Holdings applied for creditor protection due to insolvency.

Aurora Cannabis collaborates with UBC on a Genome BC-funded project to validate cannabis genetics linked to fuity aromas, enhancing its intellectual property portfolio.

• Aurora, Tilray and Vectura Fertin Pharma support a 3-year study by Santé Cannabis currently recruiting 3,000 patients to explore personalised medical cannabis treatment outcomes.
• Medical cannabis registrations decreased post-legalisation, but remaining patients stabilised purchasing frequencies and increased purchase sizes after edibles became available.
• Cannabis legalization in Ontario and BC has led to organised crime exploiting legal loopholes and shifting markets toward opiates and psychedelic mushrooms.
• Study released by RPC Labs finds high pesticide levels in illegal cannabis vapes; THC levels often significantly lower than labeled amounts, raising health concerns.

Australia: Medicinal Cannabis Market in Flux due to Regulatory Scrutiny and Domestic Growth Challenges

As of September 2024, Australia has 90 medicinal cannabis licence holders, including 27 cultivation and production permits, and 12 manufacturing permits.

• Concerns about medicinal cannabis access, prescribing practices and lack of oversight continue to be prominent in the public discussion following suicide of mental health patient.
  • Doctors of private clinic Dispensed have been suspended after patients harmed by inappropriate medicinal cannabis prescriptions linked to mental health issues.
• Montu, one of the largest companies operating the Alternaleaf clinic, faces legal action by the TGA over unlawful advertising cannabis, launches legal campaign against national newspaper for accusing it of and operating an illegal referral program for costumers.
• Victoria will end automatic licence loss for drivers testing positive for medicinal cannabis, effective November 2024.

Domestic growers struggle against the influx of Canadian cannabis, affecting prices and competition, claiming strict regulations compared to Canadian imports bypassing quality checks.

• ECS Botanics reports A$5 million revenue in Q1 FY25, up 22%, driven by strong B2C strategy and new product launches.
• Vitura Health reports positive results for Q1 FY2025, aiming for 10% revenue growth in new verticals like smoke cessation and weight loss due to challenging medicinal cannabis market.
• Althea reports cash flow positive quarter but lowers full-year revenue guidance from A$60m to A$50m-$57m: CEO and CFO to take 25% pay cut for cost savings.
• Biortica’s reverse takeover of Bod has been delayed again due to audit requirements, as the company plans a public offer to raise up to A$5 million for a backdoor listing on the ASX. Biortica has released 18 new cannabis genetics, including “OG Triploid” from Humboldt.
• Cann Group seeks to raise A$6.25 million for dried flower production expansion and Botanitech product development, offering new shares to investors.
• Elixinol Wellness acquires The Healthy Chef for up to A$5.5 million, enhancing its portfolio in clean nutrition, as it plans to raise $1.1 million through share placements. The company has reported its strongest quarter since COVID, with Q3 FY24 customer receipts at A$4.1 million.
• Bioxyne Limited reports 119% revenue growth to A$4.6 million, expanding operations and securing contracts worth over $20 million annually.
• Releaf has entered receivership due to restructure operations or explore recapitalisation.
• The People’s Plant raised over A$1M to complete Stage 1 of its cultivation facility.
• Spring Sciences partners with South Africa’s Verve Dynamics to supply exclusive phyto-extracts for the Australian pharmaceutical market.
• New Zealand’s Helius Therapeutics forms partnerships with Novachem in Australia.
• Flora Growth partners with Canopy Growth to distribute Storz & Bickel medical vaporisers in Australia, expanding market presence.

InhaleRx secures A$38.5m funding from Clendon Biotech to advance inhaled therapies for cancer pain and panic disorder treatments, with synthetic CBD and dronabinol.

• UK-based Ananda Developments signed a contract for a Phase 1 PK study of its MRX1 candidate with Southern Star Research to support IND application to the US FDA.

United Kingdom: After Six Years of Medical Access, Lack of NHS Coverage Continues to Cause Frustration

Legalising cannabis could generate £5 billion for the NHS through taxation and savings on medical prescriptions for chronic pain, study finds, as illicit market is “flooded” by imports from legal countries as seizures hit 47 tonnes in 2023.

• Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs recommends increasing THC limit in hemp from 0.2% to 0.3% and lowering licensing fees—underwhelmed stakeholders demand 1% THC.
• UK cannabis trials are moving to the US due to regulatory complexities, prompting calls for licensing reforms from industry leaders.
• Cannabis reform group CLEAR publishes cannabis regulation plan, highlighting potential economic benefits and reduced underage use from legalisation efforts.
• UK Cannabis Social Clubs promote non-profit clubs to foster community support and safe access to cannabis for consumers as an alternative to prohibition.

NHS fails to prescribe cannabis flower; only 27% of trusts prescribed licensed cannabis medicines, with only 1,104 patients for approved products in 2023. Families accuse NHS of failing patients, contrasting with a growing private market for treatments, as mother in Kent spends £24k annually for daughter’s cannabis oil without NHS coverage.

• Althea shifts focus to North America and sells MyAccess Clinics to Montu for $1 million, with 2,600 regisered patients, Montu commits to purchasing Althea products for two years.
• Releaf partners with Glass Pharms for 145kg of medical cannabis, marking largest deal of UK-grown cannabis. Releaf also partnered with Portuguese Somaí to provide innovative treatments to UK patients, and extended its agreement with Omura to supply vaporising devices.
• North Macedonian extractor New Garden Pharma enters the UK market, supplying THC distillate in a partnership established with IPS Pharma for distribution.
• Celadon Pharmaceuticals signed a five-year sales contract with a new healthcare company for medicinal cannabis worth up to £10.5 million
• Big Narstie showcases Portuguese cultivation partner Herdade das Barrocas.

Artelo Biosciences develops a cannabis-based drug to stimulate weight gain in cancer patients, facing regulatory delays from the Home Office in the UK.

• Two London hospitals to trial medicinal cannabis for treatment-resistant epilepsy with 500 patients. Ananda Development‘s MRX2 and MRX2T will be used in NHS epilepsy trials.
• Substantial cost savings of medical cannabis found in economic analysis for chronic pain treatment, based on increased efficacy of 5% conservatively assumed based on RWD.
• CBD treatment for three weeks reduced symptoms in individuals at clinical high risk for psychosis, showing good tolerance and safety. A study identified epigenetic mechanisms linked to current cannabis use in first-episode psychosis cohorts.

Netherlands: Ease of Medical Cannabis Trade Restrictions, Challenges in Illicit Market and Drug Policy

New policy of the Ministry of Health eases previous restrictions on medical cannabis trade: import, export, sale and delivery of license holders will be allowed without requiring the Medicinal Cannabis Agency to take possession of the product, effectively allowing trade to be conducted by actors than the government under a Quality Assurance Agreement.

• Justice Ministry Research report on international cannabis policy developments; includes case studies, insights, and 25 recommendations for Dutch cannabis policy adjustments.
  • Coffee shop stakeholders claim that current cannabis policy limits innovation, pushing sales to illegal markets; new flexible legislation needed for safe, regulated coffee shop products.
  • Lab analysis finds that illegal cannabis vapes are easily accessible to youth, containing harmful substances and banned pesticides, posing serious health risks.
  • VOC launches cannabis and traffic campaign to raise awareness and advocate for fair testing methods for cannabis consumers in the Netherlands.
  • After coffee shops were closed in Roermond, seven street traders and four buyers were arrested in spike of illicit trade; narcotics and money seized by police.
• Decline in Dutch cannabis cultivation, with police seizing of plantations reduced from 3,634 in 2019 to 1,230 in 2023. However, foreign cannabis, particularly from Canada, is on the rise, as the Netherlands remains a crucial hub in the global drug market.

New figures on drug use in the Netherlands finds cannabis remains the most used drug with 7.6% of the adult population consuming, at a stable level since 2015.

• Syqe’s cartridge with Bedrocan cannabis received EU-GMP certification, enabling marketing in EU-compliant countries for medical cannabis treatments.

A study by Philips/Signify and Wageningen University finds that high light intensity enhances medicinal cannabis yield by increasing inflorescence mass and metabolite concentrations.

• A systematic review of Bedrocan’s standardised cannabis effects on healthy volunteers and patients, focusing on THC, CBD, and medicinal applications highlighted need for more research.

Brazil: Named-Patient Imports at Risk, as Market Sees New Product Launches and Regulation for Veterinary Use

Importation of medicinal cannabis in Brazil faces risks due to potential taxation and pressure from pharmaceutical unions to restrict special imports in favour of approved products.

• Associations instead defend RDC No. 660/2022 that allows for named-patient imports, warning its revocation risks access to cannabinoid therapy as domestic production is lacking.
• Medical regulator ANVISA approved regulation allowing veterinarians to prescribe cannabis-based products for animals under strict therapeutic guidelines in Brazil.
• Proposed Bill in Congress intends to use seized cannabis for medicinal research, amending the Anti-Drug Law to allow therapeutic use.
• Supreme Court grants Habeas Corpus to a patient association in Peruíbe, allowing medicinal cannabis cultivation for therapeutic purposes.
• Association in Ceará receives judicial approval to cultivate for the benefit of 50 local patients, as it seeks to expand production in partnership with Federal University of Ceará.

Medicinal CBD leader Prati-Donaduzzi launched new 20mg CBD Drops in 10ml bottles—company captured 53.5% of pharmacy sales in July 2024 across 19,000 locations.

• Hypera Pharma studies merger with EMS, potentially creating a major LatAm pharmaceutical company. Hypera claims 14.5% market share in the Brazilian CBD, growing 388% last year.
• Aché launched a 100 mg/mL oral cannabidiol solution for medicinal use, approved by Anvisa.
• Holy Natural Healers secured R$2 million investment ($349k) on Shark Tank Brazil.

Israel: High Tariffs on Canadian Cannabis Proposed as Patient Numbers Continue to Decline

Ministry of Economy has unveiled final results of its dumping investigation on Canadian cannabis: proposal of up to 175% tariff on Canadian medical cannabis imports to protect local industry from unfair competition.

• Israel establishes a committee of psychiatrists to assess medical cannabis use amid rising concerns over its health impacts and addiction risks.

Patient count in Israel continue to decrease by over 4,000 in October, totalling 115,072 as of November 2024. Import rates of cannabis returned to normal, with over 1.6 tons imported.

Study on October 7 attack survivors found no relationship of pre-trauma cannabis use with mental health outcomes, while alcohol significantly increased risk of mental health problems.

• Innocan Pharma’s LPT-CBD shows long-term success in relieving osteoarthritis pain in dogs, improving mobility and quality of life.
• Review finds that cannabis might not aid in weight reduction; despite potential to increase appetite without significantly affecting body weight.

France: Medical Cannabis Access Delayed Until 2026, But Debate Over Legalisation Intensifies

An amendment to include medical cannabis in the 2025 Social Security Budget aims to extend the experimentation by six months, but expansion of access is not likely before at least 2026.

• Some members of Parliament have raised concerns over the exclusion of flower and inhaled cannabis forms, urging for continued access for patients in the experiment.
• Socialist party leader advocates for cannabis legalisation experiments in France to combat drug-related crime, especially in Marseille.
• Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele rebukes former French President François Hollande, who argues cannabis legalisation won’t reduce trafficking; whereas Bukele argues that criminal reform only changes the goalpost and argues for removing criminals.

La Chanvrière de l’Aube has planted over 13,000 hectares of Hemp in 2024.

• Le Point Chanvre now offers CBD cigarettes online, made from hemp flowers, free of tobacco.

A French study on legalisation in the US reveals diverse regulation models and commercial innovation in Washington, Oregon, and California, allowing the identification of best practices.

Spain: Medical Cannabis Rollout Faces Criticism as CBD Crackdown Continues

Pharmacists criticise the Ministry of Health for limiting medical cannabis dispensing to hospitals in the new Royal Decree, despite their experience with potent narcotics like Fentanyl.

• Government parties and its allies agree to reform infamous Citizen Security Law that sets penalties for cannabis possession and cultivation: fines expected to be reduced.
• Madrid campaign against cannabis and CBD perseveres: police seized over a thousand cannabis-related products from two CBD stores which it considers a narcotic.

Construction of cannabis factory Pharmaweed in Extremadura has commenced, with an investment of €18.5 million and up to 42 jobs expected to be created by February 2026.

The Centre for Research in Agricultural Genomics of the Autonomous University of Barcelona has developed a platform for mutation discovery and crop improvement.

Poland: Controversial Ban on Remote Prescriptions Has Been Enacted

The ban on remote cannabis prescriptions has been enacted: First prescriptions must be obtained during face-to-face visits; teleconsultations are insufficient for initial prescriptions. Primary care physicians under the National Health Fund can issue remote prescriptions only for ongoing therapy continuation.

COSMA received positive marketing authorisation for two cannabis flowers of 20% and 21% THC produced by Cannprisma in Portugal.

• Local LP Green Zebras plans to implement GMP standards to launch products by 2025.
• Canpoland signed a 5-year supply agreement valued at €15.3m with Allied Corp to deliver Colombian medical cannabis.
• Seed-to-sale platform TRUSTT launches freemium version offering GACP-compliance features.

Portugal: Expanded Medical Cannabis Options, but Patient Access Concerns Persist

Infarmed approved three new cannabis extract formulations from Ferraz Lynce Laboratory, expanding therapeutic options for patients in Portugal.

• Patient associations celebrate new therapeutic options but cite co-payment as their priority to address equity in access for patients.

Herdade das Barrocas formed a strategic alliance with indoor grower Indigo Horizon to leverage resources and expertise to bolster market access.

Study analyses knowledge of nurses and nursing students in Portugal regarding medicinal cannabis and its administration: 80% consider it legitimate, but many lack endocannabinoid system knowledge, highlighting need for curriculum inclusion.

Argentina: Cannabis Industry Faces Setbacks, Regulatory Changes Threaten Jobs and Exports

Regulatory changes threaten potential of cannabis industry in Argentina of 10,000 jobs and $50 million in cannabis exports, causing uncertainty for existing projects and investors.

• REPROCANN patients report cancellations of approved applications, facing new requirements and potential judicial actions due to irregularities in handling new Ministry of Health requirements.
• New Hemp and Cannabis Industry Chamber intends to influence policy and fight restrictive approach by Milei’s administration.

Many companies have ceased operations in the last year, particularly some State-owned projects like the cannabis production pole of San Juan.

New Zealand: Industry Grows Amid Concerns Over Patient Access

Proliferation of medicinal cannabis clinics in New Zealand has sparked concerns about profit prioritisation over patient care. Most products now contain high THC levels, while high costs continue to impede access for many patients.

• Puro, one of the largest New Zealand growers, received a strategic investment from Te Rūnanga o Kaikōura, as it seeks to raise $2 million in this funding round.

Research explores cannabis substitution for alcohol and other drugs among a large sample of cannabis users, indicating potential benefits of cannabis use over alcohol.

South Africa: Clampdown on Illicit Dispensaries

SAHPRA is enforcing a clampdown on unlicensed cannabis sales, raiding cannabis outlets in major cities while stating that no dispensary licenses exist and illegal outlets must close.

• Legal clarity on cannabis clubs and dispensaries in South Africa remains uncertain, with recent legislation on decriminalisation pending activation by the president.
• Constitutional court ruling mandates fair drug testing policies, balancing employee rights with workplace safety.

KwaZulu-Natal municipality successfully harvests its second cannabis crop, securing R6-million funding for a processing facility, overcoming doubts on the project’s viability.

• Nexus Pharma plans two processing facilities in Pretoria and Cape Town, set to begin operations in 2025 to channel surplus inventory in the market for exportation.

Italy: EU Scrutiny Over CBD Ban as Court Suspends Cannabis Decree

European Commission investigates Italy’s proposed ban on CBD and hemp flowers, citing potential violations of EU regulations and competition rules, as entrepreneurs highlight economic impact of hemp in the country.

• Lazio court confirmed suspension of health ministry decree on oral cannabis products until December hearing.

Avextra’s NEUROBIS has been approved for Phase II trial to evaluate cannabis-based medicine for neurodegenerative disease symptoms with funding by Italian Ministry of Health.

Thailand: Government Drafts New Regulations Amid Concerns Over Illicit Exports

Cabinet approved draft regulations for cannabis and hemp product applications, expected to be enacted next year, enabling businesses continued operations if compliant with medical laws.

• Ministry of Public Health emphasises standards for cannabis cultivation and processing to ensure quality and compliance.

Illicit exportation of Thai-grown cannabis has come to the foreground, with 1.3 tonnes bound for the UK found in local port, UK ambassador meets with officials as smuggling skyrocketed.

Denmark: Medical Cannabis Access Remains Limited Despite Launch of New Products

Patients sourcing from the illicit market criticise doctors’ power to deny medical cannabis prescriptions: access remains limited despite parliamentary approval for trials since 2018.

Scanleaf begins supplying Bedrocan flower products in Denmark at a cost of DKK 98-128 per gram ($14-18/g), plans approvals of further products.

• Balancial signs agreement with New Zealand’s Helius to launch cannabis extracts in Denmark.
• STENOCARE revises 2024 sales guidance to DKK 4.5m ($0.65m) due to market performance.

Czech Republic: New CBD Regulations and Increased Local Medical Cannabis Supply

Czech Parliament approved new rules for handling kratom, CBD, and psychomodulatory substances, requiring specific licenses, effective January 1, 2025.

Annabis has begun supplying four medical cannabis products to Czech pharmacies produced by local grower Elkoplast—plans future imports and exports by 2025.

Malta: Eleven Cannabis Clubs Now Active as On-Site Consumption Considered

Malta’s cannabis authority plans to allow designated consumption areas in the licensed associations to combat black market cannabis sales.

Two new cannabis associations licensed in Malta, increasing total number of clubs to 11, promoting safe, regulated products and consumer education.

Uruguay: New Potent Variety Now Available in the Pharmacies

Epsilon, a new sativa-dominant cannabis variety with ≤20% THC is now available in pharmacies with a price of 570 pesos per 5 grams ($2.73/g).

An investigation on the unintended effects of legalisation in Uruguay highlights the complexities of state-controlled policies: emergence of a ‘grey market’ attributed to regulatory novelty, changing policy dynamics over time, and an implementation gap.

Morocco: Local Cannabis Market Brimming with Potential

After the significant progress of cannabis regulation in recent years, civil groups are now advocating for recreational legalisation, by lobbying political parties and fostering national debate.

CANNAFLEX to open Morocco’s first specialised cannabis (CBD) store in Tangier.

Japan: CBD Companies Brace Ahead of New THC-Free Rules

Japan updates CBD requirements with new THC limits, but key issues regarding definitions and thresholds remain unaddressed. Stakeholders’ petitions delayed the new rules’ start date to mid-December, as suppliers seek to source compliant, THC-free formulations for compliance.

South Korea Looks at Japanese CBD Reform for Inspiration

South Korea looks to Japan for regulatory reform inspiration, as frustrations mount over the slow pace of revising domestic hemp-related regulations. This scrutiny intensifies as the deadline for the Hemp Special Zone in Andong looms.

Colombia: Regulatory Framework for CBD in Food Products Established

A resolution has been published establishing regulations for CBD in foods with a provisional ADI set at 10 mg/day based on safety assessments and studies.

MedCana acquired 23 cannabis licenses of companies like Cannabicolombia, Cannehealth, and Royal Cannabis, enhancing its portfolio with $1.6 million in assets for Q3.

• Phaterxon Pharma shipped 80 kilos of high-quality CBD flower to Europe.

Switzerland: Pilot Projects’ Insights Inform Proposed German Experiments

Experience of Swiss pilot projects taken into account in the proposed German experiments.

Study finds modified endocannabinoid system regulation in younger multiple sclerosis patients.

Ireland: Legislative Committee Recommends Cannabis Reform

As the country prepares for general election on November 29, Ireland’s Justice Committee recommended decriminalising drug possession and allowing a regulated not-for-profit market.

Romania: EU Court Landmark Decision Allows Indoor CBD Cultivation

EU Court of Justice has overturned a Romanian Court decision to deny indoor hydroponic hemp cultivation as an agricultural practice.

Ukraine: Registration of Medical Cannabis Ingredients Began

Businesses with a valid drug license can start registering cannabis as an active pharmaceutical ingredient and import medical cannabis from abroad: new licensing rules for cannabis cultivation and production to be adopted by November 30, 2024, regulating all stages of circulation.

Costa Rica: Dozens of Hemp Licenses Awarded; Seeking International Investment

Costa Rica has already issued 57 hemp licenses since the first one in August 2023, focusing on both commercial cultivation and research, seeking to attract international companies to Costa Rica.

• San José and Guanacaste provinces lead in hemp licenses, while the National University and Technological Institute of Costa Rica conducts research.

Paraguay: European Demand Spurs Production

Industry representative claims that the entire cannabis harvest for 2024 has been sold to the European market, rising demand requires more overseas production.

China: Concerns Over Cannabis Counterfeit to the US May Be Overstated

Concerns about Chinese counterfeit cannabis products entering the US market may be exaggerated. Media misinformation could undermine the credibility of an emerging industry.

India: Company Partners with South Korean Firm to Invest in Hemp-Based Cosmetics

Awega pivots to hemp cosmetics, partnering with South Korean Yuhan Care for manufacturing and marketing in India of hemp-based beauty products, with a goal to invest ₹300 crore ($36m).

Pakistan: Review Highlights Anticancer Potential

Review find potential of cannabinoids in cancer therapy, improving symptoms, achieving tumor remission, but require more research for standardised protocols and safety.

Iran: Rat Stuy Shows Potential of Cannabinoids for Addiction Treatment

An Iranian rat study found that CB1 receptor agonist disrupts methamphetamine-induced conditioned place preference and may target anxiety behaviors in addiction treatment.

Georgia: Decriminalisation Didn’t Increase Youth Consumption

Cannabis use among young adults in the country of Georgia remained stable after removing penalties for consumption in 2018, despite perceived easier access and increased age of first use.

Lebanon: Study Underscores Anticancer Potential of Cannabis

CBD and THC from Lebanese Cannabis show anti-metastatic potential via apoptosis induction and autophagy alterations in cancer cells.

Bahamas Establishes Cannabis Authority Restricting Licenses to Citizens

Government assembling Cannabis Authority to regulate medical and religious cannabis use in The Bahamas; licenses will only be awarded to Bahamian citizens or fully Bahamian-owned entities.

Maldives: Canadian Sentenced to Life for Minimal Possession

Canadian Scott William Armstrong sentenced to life for trafficking in Maldives; found guilty despite claiming 27 grammes of cannabis in his room weren’t his.

Mauritius: Review Finds Potential of Cannabis for Neuropathic Pain

A systematic review finds that cannabinoids show promise in managing neuropathic pain with minimal side effects, warranting further clinical trials for validation.

Andorra: CBD Businesses Push for Swiss-Style Regulation

CBD businesses in Andorra aim to emulate Swiss law allowing 1% THC on CBD products, engaging politicians as government drafts cannabis cultivation project.

Cayman Islands: Decriminalisation Referendum Planned

A planned referendum will include a vote on decriminalisation of small amounts of cannabis.