Embrapa Researcher Discusses the Future of Cannabis in Brazil

Daniela Bittencourt, executive secretary of the permanent commission on cannabis at Embrapa and confirmed speaker at Cannabis Connection 2024, shared in an exclusive interview with the portal Sechat the main advances and challenges that Brazil faces in cannabis research. Representing one of the main agricultural research institutions in the country, Daniela emphasized the importance of the agronomic development of the plant and its potential impact on health, industry, and agriculture.

One of the milestones of this journey was Embrapa's initiative, which filed an authorization request with the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) on September 25 to conduct cannabis research in Brazil. The agency's goal is to develop an extensive research program, lasting approximately 12 years, to deepen the agronomic knowledge about the species, taking into account its various applications in health, agriculture, and industry.

The studies cover four main aspects:

- Development of cultivars adapted to the Brazilian climate;
- Cultivation management practices;
- Post-harvest and industrial utilization; 
- In addition to the analysis of public policies, economy, and climatic zoning.

Research Advances and Promising Future

Daniela emphasized that Embrapa has already taken significant steps, building a solid base of agronomic knowledge about cannabis, especially focused on the particularities of the Brazilian climate and soil. Although the country does not yet have regulations authorizing cultivation, the researcher believes that with proper structure and government support, Brazil can stand out globally in both the medicinal and industrial use of the plant.

"Our focus is to generate innovations that bring benefits to both agriculture and health. Cannabis has enormous potential for genetic development, especially in creating varieties adapted to our climate", said Daniela.

Challenges: Regulatory and Educational Barriers

The researcher also highlighted the challenges that Embrapa and other institutions face. The lack of clear legislation for cannabis cultivation is still one of the major obstacles. Daniela explained that this lack of regulation hinders the faster progress of research, creating uncertainties that affect everything from funding to project implementation.

"We need legislation that keeps pace with scientific innovations. Additionally, it is essential to promote broad education about cannabis, demystifying its use and showing its therapeutic and industrial benefits", she commented.

Social Impacts and Collaborations

Another important point is the social impact that cannabis research can bring. Embrapa has been working to establish partnerships with other institutions and companies, increasing the research and development capacity of the plant. Daniela emphasizes that by advancing research, Brazil can not only improve the quality of life of patients using medicinal cannabis but also create new job opportunities and economic development.

"Collaborations are essential for us to implement sustainable practices and generate positive impact in various areas of society", stated the researcher.

Education and Awareness: A Crucial Role

Daniela also emphasized the role of education and public awareness. She highlighted the importance of promoting events, workshops, and publications that explain in a clear and scientific manner the applications and benefits of cannabis.

"Misinformation is one of the main obstacles to research advancement in Brazil. It is necessary to educate the public and authorities about the potential of the plant so that we can build a solid and responsible industry", she concluded.

Debate at Cannabis Connection

Cannabis Connection, a B2B event that will bring together entrepreneurs, investors, politicians, and regulatory sector representatives, will take place on November 6 in São Paulo. In addition to Daniela Bittencourt, the event will feature important figures for the discussion such as Fábio Mitidieri, governor of Sergipe and author of PL 399, and Daniela Arquete, a regulation specialist at Anvisa.

The meeting promises to be a milestone in the discussion on cannabis regulation in Brazil, providing a unique opportunity for the debate on the future of the sector and the role of scientific research in this context.