Brazil Prepares to Tap Cannabis Potential with Ambitious 12-Year Research Program
Brazil’s agricultural research agency, Embrapa, known for transforming the country into a global leader in grain exports, is now aiming to do the same for cannabis cultivation. Embrapa scientists plan to launch a 12-year research program focused on cannabis, anticipating approval from health regulator Anvisa later this year. The initiative could position Brazil as a key player in the emerging global cannabis market.
Cannabis Adaptation for Brazil’s Climate
Embrapa has a history of developing genetic varieties of crops like soybeans, cotton, and vegetables suited to Brazil’s tropical climate. Researchers are now eager to apply the same expertise to cannabis. “Can you imagine if we had genetically improved this plant like we’ve done with cotton over the past 50 years?” said Daniela Bittencourt, a member of Embrapa’s cannabis work group.
The agency plans to create a national cannabis seed bank and adapt strains to thrive in Brazil’s diverse soils and climate. It also aims to identify and develop regional cannabis production hubs across the country.
About ten domestic and international companies have already approached Embrapa for potential partnerships. These firms are interested in applications ranging from medicine and food products to using cannabis for crop rotation and carbon fixation in the soil.
Court Ruling Paves the Way for Hemp Cultivation in Brazil
Brazil’s higher court took a significant step in November by legalising the cultivation of hemp for medicinal purposes. Hemp, a type of cannabis with less than 0.3% THC—the psychoactive compound in marijuana—is often grown for cannabidiol (CBD) and its versatile fibres, used in textiles, paper, and construction materials.
The court ruling requires Anvisa to establish regulations by May, although the agency has requested a six-month extension. Recreational marijuana sales remain illegal in Brazil, unlike in Uruguay and Canada, which have fully embraced the cannabis industry.
Potential for Large-Scale Hemp Production
Kiara Cardoso, founder of DNA Soluções em Biotecnologia—the company that won the court case allowing hemp planting—believes large-scale hemp cultivation could become a reality in Brazil. She sees significant potential for the paper, textile, and food industries. However, current regulations may limit planting to small, controlled spaces that comply with strict pharmaceutical standards.
China, Brazil’s largest trading partner, is also the world’s biggest hemp producer and exporter. Other countries, such as France and Paraguay, have authorised hemp cultivation for industrial and medicinal purposes, highlighting Brazil’s opportunity to join this growing global market.
Embrapa’s initiative could replicate the success of its soybean research, which helped Brazil become the world’s top soybean producer. If successful, it could establish Brazil as a leader in cannabis cultivation, driving innovation and economic growth in the industry.
with inputs from Reuters
