Rua Biosciences, a New Zealand medical marijuana company with Maori roots, has made its debut in the Australian cannabis market with the launch of its dried flower product, Rua Rau Hiwa. This marks a significant step for the company, whose business model centers on genetics and international distribution.
Rua Rau Hiwa is derived from legacy genetics cultivated during the illegal cannabis era in New Zealand’s Tairāwhiti region. The company is proud to bring these unique strains to Australian patients, highlighting the potential of traditional knowledge in creating effective medical solutions.
Rua Biosciences’ CEO, Paul Naske, emphasized the company’s commitment to research and development. He stated, “We continue to prioritize R&D and genetic discovery. Tairāwhiti is home to ‘legacy’ genetics developed over generations – it is these unique cannabis strains that are grown and discovered at Rua’s facility in Mangaoporo.”
The Australian medical marijuana market is experiencing explosive growth, with imports of medical marijuana exceeding 42 tons in 2023, a 69% increase compared to the previous year. This growth is fueled by a substantial increase in patient numbers, with over one million patients currently utilizing medical cannabis in Australia.
Rua Biosciences is well-positioned to tap into this market with its four distributors in Australia, one of which covers 50% of the market and reaches approximately 200,000 patients. The company also has its sights set on expanding further, with plans to introduce its New Zealand genetics into the German cannabis market in the coming year.
The launch of Rua Rau Hiwa in Australia exemplifies the growing global trend of medical cannabis legalization and its increasing acceptance as a viable medical treatment option. Rua Biosciences’ focus on quality genetics and international distribution positions the company for continued success in this rapidly evolving market.
