According to Abicann, the STF’s decision on personal cultivation and possession paves the way for a change in the law
(Abicann) said it is actively working in the search for an efficient regulatory framework for regulating the cannabis in Brazil. For the entity, the discussion could be deepened in 2025 after the decision of the STF (Supreme Federal Court) that decriminalizes personal cultivation.
The regulatory measure has the potential to ease the justice system and facilitate access to medical treatments. However, according to Abicann, the resistance found in the National Congress and part of the business community continues to be significant barriers to the sector’s growth.
According to the association, only a portion of the approximately 20 million potential patients in cannabis medicine can access treatments. The reason is the high associated costs, which can vary from R$25,000 to R$50,000 per person per year.
Currently, the search for cannabis is met by imported products or judicialized personal cultivation. Still, according to the association, it is an insufficient quantity to meet all demand.
For Abicann, the lack of regulation in Brazil still hinders the development of industrial hemp fiber, a variety of cannabis. The sector has potential to generate up to R$18 billion annually, according to the association.
CANNABIS NOT BRAZIL
On June 25, the STF decided to allow marijuana possession for personal use. In practice, the conduct does not become legal, but it is no longer treated as a crime.
Up to 40 grams of cannabis sativa or 6 female plants – which produce flowers rich in THC, the psychoactive compound tetrahydrocannabinol.
Since June 28, people caught consuming marijuana will have the drug confiscated and the user will be taken to the police station. The delegate, however, should not order the arrest in the act or initiate an investigation.
