Cannabis industry in the UK
In the United Kingdom, there is a myriad of companies and organizations deeply ingrained in the cannabis industry. These entities span across different sectors within the industry, ranging from production and distribution to research and advocacy. Regardless of the differences in their operational niches, all these entities collectively make significant contributions to the growth and development of the cannabis industry within the country. Here are some of them: To start with, there are companies responsible for the production of cannabis. These companies are essentially the driving force behind the cannabis industry. They are the ones who cultivate cannabis, ensuring it meets the required quality standards before it finds its way into the market. They employ seasoned horticulturists and utilize advanced farming techniques to cultivate high-quality cannabis. These companies must adhere to strict regulatory standards set by governmental agencies to ensure the safety and quality of their produce. Next, we have the distributors, who act as the link between the producers and the consumers. These distributors have a significant role in the cannabis supply chain. They’re tasked with the responsibility of moving the cannabis products from the farms to the various stores, dispensaries, and other points of sale. Their role is crucial in ensuring the products reach consumers in a timely manner while maintaining the product’s quality and freshness. They also play a key role in keeping the market stocked and preventing shortages. Then, there are the researchers in the cannabis industry. These are typically academic institutions, pharmaceutical companies, or independent research bodies. They conduct extensive studies on cannabis, examining its medical benefits, side effects, and potential uses. Their work is crucial in advancing our understanding of cannabis and its uses, and in shaping policy around cannabis. They often work in cooperation with the government and medical professionals to ensure their research is rigorous, accurate, and beneficial to society. Lastly, there are organizations that act as advocates for the cannabis industry. These advocacy groups play an essential role in lobbying for favourable legislation and regulations around cannabis. They work tirelessly to change public perception, educate people about the benefits of cannabis, and fight for the rights of cannabis users. Their efforts have led to significant progress in cannabis legalization and decriminalization in various parts of the UK. In conclusion, there are several key players in the cannabis industry in the UK, each with specific roles and responsibilities. Their collective efforts contribute to the growth and development of the industry. They all play a part in ensuring the cannabis industry thrives, while also complying with the laws and regulations of the land.
GW Pharmaceuticals (GWP) is the largest publicly-listed cannabis company in the world, with a valuation of over $50 billion1. It develops cannabinoid-based prescription medicines, such as Epidiolex and Sativex, which are approved for treating seizures and spasms in various countries1.
Canopy Growth (CGC) is a Canadian company that produces and sells cannabis products for medical and recreational use. It has a partnership with British American Tobacco to develop cannabis-based products for the UK market2.
Aurora Cannabis (ACB) is another Canadian company that operates in the medical and recreational cannabis markets. It has a subsidiary in Denmark, Aurora Nordic, which supplies cannabis to the UK and other European countries2.
Cronos Group (CRON) is a Canadian producer and distributor of medical cannabis that also operates in Germany, Israel, and Australia. It has a research and development facility in Israel that focuses on cannabinoid-based therapies2.
Tilray (TLRY) is a US-based company that produces and distributes cannabis products for medical and adult-use markets. It has a production facility in Portugal that exports cannabis to the UK and other European countries2.
Aphria (APHA) is a Canadian company that produces and sells medical and recreational cannabis products. It has a distribution agreement with CC Pharma, a German pharmaceutical company that supplies cannabis to the UK and other European countries2.
HEXO (HEXO) is a Canadian company that produces and sells medical and recreational cannabis products. It has a joint venture with Molson Coors to develop cannabis-infused beverages for the UK market2.
Innovative Industrial Properties (IIPR) is a US-based real estate investment trust that focuses on the medical cannabis industry. It owns and leases properties to cannabis growers and processors in the US2.
Organigram (OGI) is a Canadian company that produces and sells medical and recreational cannabis products. It has a partnership with British American Tobacco to develop next-generation cannabis products for the UK market2.
The Green Organic Dutchman (TGOD) is a Canadian company that produces organic cannabis products for medical and recreational use. It has a distribution agreement with Knud Jepsen, a Danish company that supplies cannabis to the UK and other European countries2.
MediPharm Labs (LABS) is a Canadian company that extracts and purifies cannabinoids from cannabis plants. It has a supply agreement with STADA Arzneimittel, a German pharmaceutical company that distributes cannabis products to the UK and other European countries2.
Auxly Cannabis Group (XLY) is a Canadian company that provides financing and support services to cannabis cultivators and processors. It has a partnership with Imperial Brands to develop cannabis-based products for the UK market2.
Corbus Pharmaceuticals (CRBP) is a US-based company that develops cannabinoid-based drugs for treating inflammatory and fibrotic diseases. It has a collaboration with Kaken Pharmaceutical, a Japanese company that markets its drug lenabasum in the UK and other Asian countries2.
CannTrust (TRST) is a Canadian company that produces and sells medical and recreational cannabis products. It has a supply agreement with Apotex, a Canadian pharmaceutical company that exports cannabis products to the UK and other international markets2.
PharmaCielo (PCLO) is a Canadian company that cultivates and processes cannabis in Colombia. It has a distribution agreement with Ethypharm, a French pharmaceutical company that supplies cannabis products to the UK and other European countries2.
Aleafia Health (ALEF) is a Canadian company that provides medical cannabis services and products. It has a supply agreement with Emblem Cannabis, another Canadian company that exports cannabis products to the UK and other international markets2.
Emerald Health Therapeutics (EMH) is a Canadian company that produces and sells medical and recreational cannabis products. It has a partnership with STENOCARE, a Danish company that distributes cannabis products to the UK and other European countries2.
Zynerba Pharmaceuticals (ZYNE) is a US-based company that develops cannabinoid-based drugs for treating neurological disorders. It has an exclusive license from GW Pharmaceuticals to develop its drug Zygel in the UK and other countries2.
Zenabis Global (ZENA) is a Canadian company that produces and sells medical and recreational cannabis products. It has a supply agreement with Farmako, a German pharmaceutical company that distributes cannabis products to the UK and other European countries2.
Khiron Life Sciences (KHRN) is a Canadian company that cultivates and processes cannabis in Colombia. It has a distribution agreement with Dayacann, a Chilean company that supplies cannabis products to the UK and other Latin American countries2.
These are some of the major cannabis players in the UK, but there are also many others that are involved in the industry, such as researchers, advocates, regulators, and consumers. Cannabis is a complex and evolving topic, and there are many challenges and opportunities for the future of the industry. I hope this information was helpful to you.
Learn more:
1. bbc.co.uk
2. ig.com
4. inews.co.uk
5. bbc.co.uk
The UK has a complex and evolving legal framework for the cannabis industry, which depends on the type, purpose, and source of the cannabis products. Here is a brief overview of some of the key aspects of the UK cannabis regulation:
Cannabis is a Class B controlled drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, which means that it is illegal to possess, supply, produce, import or export cannabis without a Home Office licence1. The penalties for cannabis offences can range from a warning or a fine to up to 14 years imprisonment2.
Cannabis-based products for medicinal use in humans (CBPM) are a defined category of cannabis products that can be prescribed by specialist doctors for patients with an exceptional clinical need1. These products are listed in Schedule 2 to the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001, which means that they are subject to strict controls and regulations1.
Industrial hemp is a low-THC variety of cannabis that can be cultivated and processed for the production of hemp fibre or oil. The Home Office issues licences for industrial hemp cultivation and use of non-controlled parts of the plant (seeds and fibre) for commercial purposes1. The licences are only granted for approved seed types with a THC content not exceeding 0.2%1.
CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants. CBD products are not controlled under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, but they are subject to other regulations depending on their form and use. For example, CBD food and drink products require a Novel Food authorisation from the Food Standards Agency (FSA), which involves submitting toxicological data for review and approval3. CBD cosmetics and supplements are also regulated by the FSA and other relevant authorities3.
The UK has a large and diverse illicit cannabis market, which is estimated to be worth £2.5 billion a year4. The market consists of various types of cannabis products, such as herbal cannabis, resin, oil, edibles, and concentrates. The quality, potency, and purity of these products are unknown and unregulated, which poses health and safety risks for consumers4.
The UK cannabis industry is constantly changing and developing, as new research, evidence, and public opinion emerge. There are also different approaches and attitudes towards cannabis enforcement and reform across different regions and authorities in the UK. Therefore, it is important to stay informed and updated on the current laws and regulations regarding cannabis in the UK.
Learn more:
1. gov.uk
3. medicpro.london
4. iea.org.uk
The UK has a more restrictive and punitive approach to cannabis regulation than many other countries, especially in Europe and the Americas. While the UK allows the use of cannabis for medical purposes under very limited conditions, it still criminalises the possession, cultivation, and sale of cannabis for recreational use. The UK also has a high rate of cannabis use and arrests, despite the evidence that prohibition does not reduce demand or harm1.
In contrast, many other countries have adopted more liberal and pragmatic policies towards cannabis, such as decriminalisation, legalisation, or harm reduction. These policies aim to reduce the negative impacts of cannabis prohibition, such as criminalisation, stigma, violence, corruption, and health risks. Some of the benefits of these policies include lower rates of incarceration, drug-related deaths, HIV infections, and youth consumption, as well as higher tax revenues, public safety, and quality control123.
Some examples of countries that have more progressive cannabis policies than the UK are:
Portugal: In 2001, Portugal decriminalised the possession of all drugs for personal use, including cannabis. Instead of arresting and punishing drug users, Portugal offers them treatment and social support. This policy has led to significant reductions in drug-related deaths, HIV infections, problematic drug use, and criminal justice costs12.
Canada: In 2018, Canada became the second country in the world (after Uruguay) to legalise the production, distribution, and consumption of cannabis for recreational use. Canada regulates the cannabis market with strict rules on licensing, taxation, labelling, packaging, advertising, and age limits. Canada’s legalisation aims to protect public health and safety, prevent youth access, and eliminate the illicit market12.
Switzerland: Switzerland has a long history of implementing harm reduction measures for drug users, such as needle exchange programs, safe injection sites, and heroin-assisted treatment. Switzerland also allows the cultivation and possession of small amounts of cannabis for personal use, as well as the sale of low-THC cannabis products in shops. Switzerland is currently considering a pilot project to allow the legal supply of cannabis to adults for recreational use123.
Spain: Spain has a unique model of cannabis regulation that is based on the concept of “collective cultivation”. Spain allows the formation of non-profit associations that can grow and distribute cannabis to their members for personal use. These associations operate under certain conditions and are tolerated by the authorities. Spain also allows the personal possession and consumption of cannabis in private spaces12.
These are just some of the examples of how different countries regulate cannabis in different ways. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for cannabis policy, as each country has its own social, cultural, political, and economic context. However, there is a growing consensus that prohibition is not effective or sustainable, and that alternative approaches are needed to address the complex challenges posed by cannabis12.
Learn more:
1. bbc.co.uk
2. itv.com
What is the history of cannabis prohibition in UK?
The history of cannabis prohibition in the UK is a complex and evolving topic, but here is a brief summary of some of the key events and factors that shaped it:
Cannabis was widely used as a medicinal plant in the UK until the late 1800s, when it was replaced by other drugs such as aspirin and morphine1.
Cannabis was first banned in the UK in 1928, following the 1925 International Opium Convention, which added cannabis as an addendum to the Dangerous Drugs Act 192023. This was influenced by the pressure from Egypt and Turkey, which had religious and political reasons to prohibit cannabis4.
Cannabis remained a low-priority issue for the UK authorities until the 1960s, when its recreational use increased among the youth and counterculture movements. This led to the 1971 Misuse of Drugs Act, which classified cannabis as a Class B drug, with harsher penalties for possession and supply3.
In 2004, cannabis was briefly downgraded to a Class C drug, with lower penalties and a policy of cautioning rather than arresting cannabis users. However, this was reversed in 2009, after concerns about the increased potency and health risks of cannabis3.
In 2018, cannabis was legalised for medical use in the UK, under strict conditions and regulations. Only specialist doctors can prescribe cannabis-based products for patients with an exceptional clinical need2.
These are some of the main milestones in the history of cannabis prohibition in the UK, but there are also many other aspects and nuances that are worth exploring. If you are interested in learning more, you can check out some of these sources:
Cannabis Prohibition: A British History – ISMOKE | UK Cannabis Website
Cannabis in the United Kingdom – Wikipedia
Is Weed Legal in the UK? – UK Cannabis Laws Explained
The History of Marijuana – CNBS
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