The rise of medicinal cannabis in Colombia
In the mountains of the Colombian department of Valle del Cauca, the roots of cannabis are increasingly rooted and expanding for the purposes of research, transformation and medicinal use. This industry is moving away from microtrafficking and violence, and seeks to establish itself as a legitimate source of benefits for the country’s health and economy.
Innovative projects in Dagua
In the municipality of Dagua, for example, there is the ‘Green Leaf’ venture, which emerged in 2017 thanks to the collaboration of four friends. In 2022, this initiative managed to sell more than 800 kilos of high-quality medicinal cannabis flower to more than 15 legal companies that have the licenses required by Colombian regulation. In addition to the crops destined for the extraction of components for the production of creams, ointments, oils and other derivatives, the purchasing companies have developed new products that are exported worldwide.
The economic potential of cannabis
In Valle del Cauca, there are more than 40 businesses with licenses to use the plant for medicinal and commercial purposes. At the national level, it is estimated that there are nearly 4,000 similar projects. These initiatives see medical cannabis as an opportunity to boost the country’s economy, generating employment and promoting the development of a promising industry.
The role of regulation and academia
In Colombia, the Government has issued resolutions and decrees to regulate safe and informed access to the use of cannabis and its derivatives. This has allowed sectors such as food, textiles and beverages to use the non-psychoactive components of the plant. In addition, progress is being made in the decriminalization of recreational cannabis, which will open new opportunities for the industry.
Academia and experts also play a vital role in the development of this industry. Universities such as Santiago de Cali are working on training professionals specialized in clinical research applied to cannabis. In addition, panels and debates are being held to analyze and delve deeper into the topic.
The importance of medical prescription
Although medicinal cannabis offers health benefits, it is important to exercise caution and follow the instructions of medical professionals. Self-medication is not recommended and it is necessary to have a clinical prescription and adequate studies for its consumption. Safety and supervision are essential to ensure the therapeutic benefits of cannabis.
The future of the cannabis industry in Colombia
With regulation in place and growing interest in medicinal cannabis, this industry is expected to continue growing in the coming years. Universities from different regions of the country are joining scientific research and it is expected that effective regulation will be achieved that allows the development of this promising industry in Colombia.
