
Over the last few days, several countries have moved to either allow medicinal cannabis or allow its cultivation.
Starting in Peru, where the Government published regulations for the cultivation and distribution of medicinal cannabis. This will allow the companies that have already been gaining a foothold to start cultivating.
The Director for Government Affairs & Partnership in South America of one of the these companies, Plena, said “Peru’s approval of its recent regulatory decree for medical cannabis places the country in the forefront of a global industry that is evolving and will generate tremendous goodwill for our people.
“Peru can become one of the biggest producers of medicinal cannabis worldwide. Our favourable climate and geographical position is a huge advantage the country can seize to lead the global industry.”
Further north, St Kitts & Nevis has approved most recommendations from the National Marijuana Commission. These include:
- The Drugs Act will be amended to develop a medical cannabis industry and allow use for medicinal purposes
- Anyone caught with 15 grams or less or 5 plants or less will NOT have a criminal charge only a ticketable offence
The country will soon be changing legislation to enact these recommendations, essentially allowing cultivation and use of medicinal cannabis, and decriminalising recreational use.
Lastly, Zambia has announced they have approved 37 companies to be issued licenses to cultivate medicinal cannabis.
“In the last few months, more than 200 local and foreign companies have shown interest in venturing into medical cannabis production. Cabinet has approved about 37 of them and they will be issued with licences. For now we are in the process of registering them,” said Deputy Minister Haritatos.
He said the investors would be issued with 12-month long licences pending renewal. Deputy Minister Haritatos said Government will strongly guard against illicit dealings in cannabis.