<strong>Saying that hemp will dominate Brazilian agriculture is a panacea: See Rolim's analysis</strong>

By Lorenzo Rolim da Silva

There is a misconception that has been spread by some people in Brazil that when hemp and cannabis production are allowed in the country, this crop will become the most important in the agricultural market and will be used in everything possible, from food, paper, concrete, cellulose, to carbon nanotubes. However, as an authority on the subject, I must state that this is not true.

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Although hemp has enormous potential and can enable various industries to become more sustainable, it is important to emphasize that this crop is not for everyone. Hemp is a niche crop with a specific audience and cannot be considered as the solution to a variety of problems. If, by some miracle, tomorrow it were possible to grow hemp in Brazil and some rural producer wanted to plant 10 thousand hectares (which is basically nothing compared to soybeans, corn, wheat, coffee, etc....) there is not even enough seed in the world to cover the area in such a short time.

Furthermore, we can take examples from several countries that have allowed hemp cultivation for many years and have never seen this complete dominance over other crops. Instead, hemp is grown in specific areas and is used in a variety of products, including paper, textiles, cosmetics, and even as a source of protein in human food.

However, it is important to highlight that the regulation of hemp and cannabis is an important step for the country's economy and public health. With it, it will be possible to control the quality of products, ensure consumer safety, and create a legal and regulated market.

In addition, hemp can also be an interesting alternative to conventional crops, such as cotton and corn, which use many chemical inputs and are highly dependent on water. Hemp, on the other hand, is a resilient crop that does not require many chemical inputs and can be grown in areas with low water availability.

In summary, it is a plant with enormous potential, but we cannot believe in false claims that it will dominate Brazilian agriculture. We are talking about a niche crop with a specific audience and it can be a sustainable alternative to conventional crops. Regulation is an important step for the country's economy and public health.

Lorenzo Rolim da Silva is an Agronomist Engineer and president of LAIHA (Latin American Industrial Hemp Association).