Pakistan legalizes hemp and CBD

Pakistan has approved the cultivation and marketing of hemp with -0.3% THC, a decision described as historic by Science and Technology Minister Fawad Chaudhry, who is targeting the CBD market.

This decision comes after extensive deliberations between various ministries. To produce its hemp and CBD, Pakistan plans to import a specific variety of cannabis seeds.

«CBD plays an important role in therapeutic medicine. In 2016, groundbreaking research was unveiled, prompting China to create a cannabis research department and is now growing hemp on 40,000 acres, and Canada is growing it on 100,000 acres,» a declared Chaudhry.

«All over the world, this fiber is replacing cotton. Clothing, bags and other textile products are made from the fiber of this plant. This is a $25 billion market and Pakistan can take a significant share in this market,» said Chaudhry, adding, «This is under government control, so further research can be conducted and adequate safeguards by the narcotics ministry can be placed.»

The Minister expects hemp market generates $1 billion in revenue for Pakistan over the next three years, when research, cultivation, production and exports for medical and industrial purposes are underway. The Ministry has identified areas in the Potohar region of northern Punjab that are considered suitable for hemp cultivation due to its climate. Initially, 20 hectares will be cultivated before going any further.