Brazil is facing an ongoing dilemma: on one side, the progress of Anvisa resolutions ensuring safety and quality for patients; on the other, the slow pace in allowing cultivation and scientific research with cannabis. In episode #46 of Deusa Cast, cannabis consultant Jaime Ozi pointed out that, despite being seen as a global reference in medicinal use, the country is still held back by a restrictive mindset that hinders the full development of the sector.

“Brazil is increasingly standing out as a global reference in medicinal cannabis use, closely tied to the legislation created by Anvisa and the requirement of a medical prescription. But that's not enough. We took an important step, now we need to convince other sectors,” Ozi stated.

According to the expert, research institutions like Embrapa have shown interest in studying hemp and its applications in agribusiness, but they still face legal limitations that prevent cultivation even for scientific purposes. “It's contradictory to say there's no research while not encouraging or allowing it to happen,” he emphasized.

Medical education and mindset: the real obstacles

For Ozi, the biggest obstacle to cannabis consolidation in the country is not legal, but educational and cultural. He noted that the endocannabinoid system, responsible for regulating vital functions such as sleep, mood, and immunity, is still not part of basic medical education. “We have almost 600 thousand doctors in Brazil, but only a small portion truly understands the potential of cannabis. Prejudice within the medical community remains one of the biggest barriers,” he highlighted.

The consultant also emphasized that this lack of preparedness directly impacts those in need the most: the patients. “While we debate bureaucracies, there are families fighting every day to ensure access to treatment. There are mothers, fathers, caregivers who see cannabis as an effective and safe alternative, but still face a long road to relief.”

The discussion promoted by Deusa Cast, which also featured journalist Luiza Silveira (Globo Rural) and cannabis consultant Marcelo Grecco, reinforces that the cannabis agenda in Brazil goes beyond economics and regulation: it's about science, empathy, and political will. And, as the experts warn, the country's future in this market, which generates billions worldwide, depends on the ability to break prejudices and invest in information and research.

Watch below the insights from the cannabis consultant: