Export Cannabis
From Africa
How to Export Cannabis from Africa (2023)
- Last Update: April 2023
- By: WeGROW Export Team
In recent years, the global cannabis trade has been growing rapidly. This is due to the increasing legalization of cannabis in many countries around the world. While Africa is one of the largest producers of cannabis, there is a great opportunity for African countries to export cannabis to the rest of the world like Lesotho does.
The global cannabis industry is expected to be worth $57 billion by 2027, according to a new report by the United Nation. Export of Cannabis from Africa is poised to become a major player in this rapidly growing market, with several countries on the continent already legalising the cultivation and export of cannabis. There are numerous opportunities for African countries to leverage the global cannabis trade, including generating much-needed foreign currency revenues, creating new jobs and businesses, and promoting economic development. With a large and young population, Africa is an ideal market for the cannabis industry. The continent also has a long history of traditional use of cannabis, dating back centuries.
In recent years, there has been a growing movement to legalise and normalise cannabis use on the continent. A number of African countries have already taken steps to legalise cannabis cultivation and export of wholesale products. Lesotho was the first country in Africa to issue licences for the cultivation of medical cannabis, while Zimbabwe has legalised the production of hemp for industrial purposes. Uganda is set to become the next country to legalise commercial cultivation of cannabis, following the passage of a law in late 2019. There are many challenges that need to be addressed in order to realise the full potential of the African cannabis industry. These include lack of infrastructure and investment, regulatory hurdles, and corruption.
However, with the right policies and investments in place, Africa can capitalise on the global opportunity presented by the growing cannabis market.
Which Countries Export Cannabis from Africa
The African Cannabis Report shows that the African legal cannabis market could top US$7,1 billion by 2023 if key markets legalise medical and recreational cannabis.
Lesotho – As a regional first-mover, is set to play a crucial role in servicing and supplying the African market. Lesotho is a mountainous country with a climate that is exceptionally well suited to growing high-quality cannabis in Lesotho for medicinal markets. In 2017, Lesotho became the first African country to legalise the cultivation of cannabis for medicinal purposes and the export of cannabis to international markets.
Uganda – It is still illegal to use cannabis recreationally in Uganda but the government is the latest African country to claim a stake in the lucrative business and generate revenue. It has landed deals to export medical cannabis products to Canada and Germany to the tune of US$60 million in June 2021.
Allowing limited export of cannabis
South Africa – Medical cannabis products are currently produced for domestic use only by who are licensed by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA).
Morocco – This North African country is not only best known for hashish. But is also second only to Afghanistan as a producer of the substance. According to the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). Bloomberg reported that the trade employs at least 800 000 people and is worth US$10 billion a year in sales. Despite these figures, the country has failed to legalise cannabis after a Bill was proposed to legalise cannabis production for medical and industrial use and exportation.
Malawi – Well known for the prevalence and quality of cannabis production within its borders, especially for the sought after “Malawi Gold” strain family. According to CNN, in 2018 the Malawian government was cultivating hemp on a trial basis, ahead of the potential legalisation of the non-psychoactive cannabis strain for industrial use, for example as fabric and in food products.
Zimbabwe – Became one of the first African countries to legalise the production of cannabis for scientific and medicinal use. Citizens can now apply for a licence to cultivate cannabis. This renewable licence permits companies and individuals to produce cannabis for five years and export it.
Which Countries import Cannabis from Africa
Medical cannabis is legal in a number of countries around the world, including Canada, Israel, and a number of European Union member states. A number of these countries, including the Netherlands, Germany and Italy have created specific regulations surrounding the import of medical cannabis. This is made according to strict EU-GMP pharmaceutical standards for manufacturing of medical cannabis to be sold in the European markets. In Canada, patients are able to bring a limited amount of cannabis into the country for their personal medical use. In Israel, patients are able to import medical cannabis with a special permit. Patients in the Netherlands can possess up to 5 grams of cannabis without facing criminal charges. Here you can see a great comparison between the different standards of manufacturing cannabis.
A number of European Union member states have also decriminalized the possession of small amounts of cannabis for personal use. These countries include Spain, Portugal, and Belgium. In addition, Switzerland allows for the possession of up to 10 grams of cannabis for personal use.
Here we will look at which countries allow the import of cannabis. Medical cannabis is legal in a number of countries around the world, including Canada, UK, Israel, and a number of European Union member states. A number of these countries, including the Netherlands, Germany, and Italy, have created specific regulations surrounding the import of medical cannabis. In Canada, patients are able to bring a limited amount of cannabis into the country for their personal medical use. In Israel, patients are able to import medical cannabis with a special permit. Patients in the Netherlands can possess up to 5 grams of cannabis without facing criminal charges.
Import Recreational Cannabis
The Netherlands is the only country in Europe that currently allows the import of medical cannabis. and also the import of cannabis for recreational purposes. This is because the Netherlands has a policy of tolerance towards soft drugs, including cannabis. The Dutch government does not prosecute people for possession or use of small quantities of cannabis. However, it should be noted that while the Dutch government tolerates possession and use of small amounts of cannabis, it does not condone illegal drug trafficking. Therefore, people who attempt to import large quantities of cannabis into the Netherlands may still be prosecuted. As mentioned, other countries in Europe have much stricter policies on cannabis.
A number of European Union member states have also decriminalized the possession of small amounts of cannabis for personal use. These countries include Spain, Portugal, and Belgium. In addition, Switzerland allows for the possession of up to 10 grams of cannabis for personal use.
Cannabis Off-take
The typical international off-taker for medical cannabis products would likely be a licensed pharmaceutical or medical distribution company. These companies are already established in the distribution of pharmaceutical and medical products and have the necessary regulatory approvals and supply chain capabilities to handle the import and distribution of medical cannabis products.
Other potential off-taker companies in Europe could include licensed medical cannabis dispensaries, healthcare providers, research institutions, and universities. These entities may have a more direct use for medical cannabis products in their operations or research and may purchase products directly from producers or suppliers.
Export Cannabis from Lesotho
Cannabis wholesale exports from Lesotho to Europe are on the rise. As the demand for medical cannabis products continues to grow and more cannabis distributors in Europe are looking to import cannabis to Europe. Lesotho is one of the few African countries to have legalized cannabis for medical and scientific purposes, and has been able to capitalize on this by becoming a leading exporter of medical cannabis products to Europe.
The cannabis products exported from Lesotho are high in quality and are in high demand in Europe. The products are exported to a number of different countries, including Germany, the Netherlands, and Switzerland. The exports are helping to create jobs and boost the economy in Lesotho, and the country is quickly becoming a leading player in the global cannabis market.
The cannabis industry is still in its early stages, and there is a lot of potential for growth. Lesotho is well positioned to take advantage of this growth. Lesotho is expected to see continued growth in the export of medical cannabis products to Europe.
Meet WeGROW in Lesotho
‘WeGROW’ has both its cultivation and processing facilities based 1,600 meters above sea-level. In the mountains of Lesotho. Where clean air and peaceful environment ensure the growth of high quality cannabis plants. According to strict EU-GMP Principles for cultivation, extraction and the processing of cannabis for the medicinal and pharmaceutical markets. Mainly exporting medical cannabis to Germany and other global cannabis markets.
The 60,000 square meter cannabis facility in Lesotho has 30,000 square meter of production space in a unique hybrid greenhouse environment and employs >100 members of the surrounding communities.
The greenhouse is built to harness the power of the sun and improve the quality of the cannabis flower. The unique greenhouse design utilizes the power of the sun. Increasing terpenes and resin development throughout the life cycle of the plant. This unique growing technique, paired with innovative processing techniques, allows for a finely cured and polished product that consumer across the world enjoy.
WeGROW’s products are reliable because each variety contains a consistent amount of cannabinoids and terpenes. They are also free of contaminants such as microbes, pesticides and heavy metals. These qualities make WeGROW cannabis products reliable and safe for patients. While ensuring distributors a safe route to import cannabis from Africa.
Energy Efficient
WeGROW is producing at highest quality in a facility that sets the gold standard for the cannabis industry. Our greenhouses are powered by sunlight to provide optimal growing conditions.
Accessible
Compassionate pricing is a game-changer that not only subscribes to our values of accessibility for all, but makes us highly competitive as a supplier to international markets.
About WeGROW's Organic Rich THC Medical Strains
WeGROW has developed a unique genetic portfolio of 13 stable high demanded medical grade strains. All strains are backed with years of successful reputation import medical cannabis to Europe. These strains are highly THC concentrated and specially adopted for chronicle pain syndromes.
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Frequently Asked Questions and Answers about the Export of medical cannabis from Africa
What is medical cannabis and how is it used for medical purposes?
Medical cannabis refers to the use of the cannabis plant or its chemical components, such as cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), to treat a variety of medical conditions. Medical cannabis has been used to manage symptoms of chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, cancer, and other conditions.
Is the export of medical cannabis legal in Africa?
The legality of exporting medical cannabis from Africa varies by country. Some African countries, such as Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, have legalized the cultivation and export of medical cannabis. However, other countries, such as Nigeria and Ghana, have not legalized medical cannabis and prohibit its export.
What are the regulations surrounding the export of medical cannabis from Africa?
The regulations surrounding the export of medical cannabis from Africa depend on the country of origin and destination. Exporting medical cannabis typically requires a license from the relevant regulatory body in the country of origin, as well as compliance with the laws and regulations of the destination country.
What are the potential economic benefits of exporting medical cannabis from Africa?
Exporting medical cannabis has the potential to generate significant economic benefits for African countries, particularly those with suitable growing conditions. It can create jobs, boost local economies, and generate revenue through exports. In addition, it can provide a new source of income for small farmers and reduce the reliance on traditional crops.
What are the potential risks associated with exporting medical cannabis from Africa?
Exporting medical cannabis from Africa may be subject to political, legal, and regulatory risks, particularly in countries where the legality of cannabis is still being debated. There may also be risks related to the quality and consistency of the product, as well as competition from other cannabis-producing regions. Furthermore, there may be concerns around the diversion of medical cannabis for recreational use, which could lead to increased drug abuse and addiction.