Portugal solidifies position as the largest exporter of medical cannabis in Europe
By the 3rd quarter of this year, the country has already exported 18,521 kg of medical cannabis with the expectation of reaching 25 tons by the end of 2024
Published on 12/13/2024
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Portugal is the largest exporter of medical cannabis in Europe and the second in the world, behind only Canada, according to a publication by CannaReporter. By the 3rd quarter of this year, the country has already exported 18,521 kg of medical cannabis (plant, strategic, and material), with the expectation of reaching 25 tons by the end of 2024. The main destinations for Portuguese cannabis are Germany, Spain, Poland, and the United Kingdom.
Despite the significant increase in exports, the domestic market for medical cannabis continues to face challenges. In Portugal, the number of prescriptions for organic material dropped from 1,157 in 2023 to 757 by the 3rd quarter of 2024, a reduction of about 33%. In addition, requests for Marketing Authorization (ACM) for new products remain limited, maintaining difficulties in access for Portuguese patients.
Expansion of the business sector
The medical cannabis business sector in Portugal continues to grow in 2024. Currently, the country has 37 licensed companies for cannabis cultivation, 23 for manufacturing, 47 for import and export, and 13 for distribution. Many of these companies have accumulated more than one license, demonstrating sector expansion.
In addition, there is a growing number of companies under evaluation by Infarmed, awaiting final inspection to obtain the license. There are 94 for cultivation, 39 for processing, 100 for import and export, and 20 for distribution, in addition to 125 companies already eligible to continue their implementation in the country.
Production in favorable conditions
Due to the warm climate of southeast Portugal, about 30 agricultural workers harvest therapeutic cannabis flowers only in the morning. This emerging sector benefits from reduced energy costs compared to greenhouse cultivation.
In a quiet area surrounded by olive trees and cork oaks, the production site is heavily protected by barbed wire fences and infrared cameras. The facility, with 4.4 hectares of greenhouses and its own laboratories, is capable of producing up to 27 tons of cannabis per year. Its production is exported to various countries in Europe, Latin America, and even Australia.
