Czechs at the forefront of Europe's cannabis industry

The Americans may be moving quickly toward cannabis legalization, but the Czechs remain the undisputed leaders in cannabis-derived products. They are capitalizing on this global trend toward legalization to export their expertise in cannabis-based cosmetics, shampoos, and food. Czech entrepreneurs are determined to make the most of this opportunity and carve out a significant role in this industry.

An age-old tradition

The Czechs have been using the therapeutic properties of cannabis since its introduction by prehistoric civilizationss. The ancestors of the Slavs, the Scythians, were great enthusiasts of hemp and cannabis. The plant was used as the basis for products intended to cure minor ailments. With a relatively low THC content, the Czech cannabis variety was used primarily for textiles. In fact, traditional Czech costumes are still made from hemp. This tradition has endured despite international prohibition. In the Czech Republic, the cultivation of small quantities of cannabis or hemp has continued, becoming both a valuable skill and a way to create inexpensive homemade cosmetics.

Times were tough for cannabis growers under communist rule. But in 1989, with the fall of the USSR, cannabis-based products reappeared.  Unfortunately, most of them were forced to stop their operations upon joining the European Union. Indeed, European regulations prohibit crops and products containing more than 0.3% of THC. Producers who created and sold cannabis oil-based products were excluded from the market. The lucky few who grew hemp were able to continue their operations.

Global Expansion

«These days, you can find hundreds of cannabis-based products in stores, a stark contrast to neighboring countries.» With 20 years of experience ahead of their European neighbors, the Czechs are eager to export to the German and Polish giants.

As hemp is just beginning to make a strong comeback in Europe, retailers are welcoming the direct import of finished products. As a result, Czech products can be found in Spain, Germany, and England. In the Netherlands, too, hemp milk is becoming increasingly common, catering to vegans and those who are lactose intolerant.

Jiri Stabla, the manager of Carun Pharmacy, is determined to take on the U.S. market. After making inroads in the United Kingdom, he is now setting up shop in Panama City Beach, California. He made his name with his «cannabis pharmacies» and his products rich in cannabinoids but without THC.  Hemp seeds and the oil extracted from them are the main ingredients in most of the products. Creams, soaps, mouthwash, and even hemp-based pasta are available online and in stores. The businessman has no intention of stopping there and is now setting his sights on Dallas and New York.