South Africa’s ambitious plan to establish a thriving cannabis and hemp industry faces challenges, particularly for small-scale farmers. While the government has issued permits and implemented support initiatives, the legal landscape remains complex, impacting the livelihoods of traditional cultivators.
In a major victory for the Italian hemp industry, a court has temporarily suspended a decree that would have classified CBD as a narcotic. This decision comes as the Italian government has been pushing to ban all forms of cannabis flowers, including hemp, despite widespread protests and arguments that it would damage the industry and violate EU law. The future of the hemp sector remains uncertain, but this court ruling provides a glimmer of hope and highlights the ongoing legal battle over cannabis regulation in Italy.
Despite growing public support and the Ministry of Health’s backing, cannabis decriminalization in Poland faces significant hurdles. This article examines the key players, challenges, and potential timelines for the reform.
The automotive industry is increasingly turning to hemp to create sustainable and eco-friendly vehicles. From interior panels to structural components, hemp fibers are being used to reduce carbon emissions, improve fuel efficiency, and meet growing consumer demand for sustainable products.
Volkswagen is partnering with Revoltech GmbH to develop sustainable materials based on industrial hemp, aiming to replace faux leather in its models by 2028. This move aligns with the company’s commitment to sustainability and leverages the growing hemp industry in Germany, which recently saw significant legal changes.
A former union official in Switzerland has been found guilty of detaining a gardener in a CBD hemp facility due to a disagreement over the sale price of the company. The official threatened the gardener with violence and demanded an additional payment, leading to a 13-month suspended prison sentence.
Wana Brands, a leading cannabis edibles company, has launched a new marketplace called Wanderous, offering a curated selection of hemp-derived products, including gummies and infused beverages. The marketplace aims to provide a trusted and transparent platform for consumers seeking plant-powered wellness solutions.
California’s cannabis industry is facing a growing exodus as companies seek refuge in the less regulated hemp market. High taxes, strict regulations, and limited market reach are driving this shift. Companies like Green Bee Botanicals are finding success in the hemp sector, where they can offer lower prices, sell online, and reach a wider market. However, this trend raises questions about the future of the cannabis industry and the role of regulators in a rapidly changing landscape.
Glass House Brands, facing challenges in the over-taxed California cannabis market, is considering a strategic shift into the hemp sector. CEO Kyle Kazan highlighted the company’s plans to repurpose unused greenhouses for hemp cultivation and capitalize on the growing demand for hemp-derived products. The move mirrors other industry players like Curaleaf, who are leveraging the legal framework of the 2018 Farm Bill to explore the economic potential of hemp.
