Leaders and representatives of 10 associations dedicated to Medicinal Cannabis in Brazil will be in Brasília this week with a clear objective: to promote the regulation of associative cultivation of the plant on Brazilian soil for medicinal purposes. This effort, which will culminate in a series of meetings with high-ranking figures, highlights the growing need for a more inclusive and responsible regulatory approach in the country.

Since 2015, the importation of Cannabis-based products has been legal. However, the process is complex and costly, making access to medications a challenge for many patients. Regulation of cultivation in the country could significantly reduce these obstacles, as well as promote research and production on national soil.

The Brazilian Drug Law assigns to the Ministry of Health the prerogative to authorize the cultivation of Cannabis for medical and scientific purposes. However, the lack of action by the Executive branch has left associations and patients in a legal limbo, with many resorting to litigation to ensure their access to treatment.

Meanwhile, the Bill 399/2015, which could establish a regulatory framework for cannabis cultivation, has remained stagnant in the National Congress for over two years, without offering adequate solutions to the needs of associations and patients.

Faced with this scenario, associations have emerged as protagonists in democratizing access. Supported by favorable judicial decisions, some are already producing medications on Brazilian soil, offering more affordable and safer alternatives for thousands of patients across the country.

However, the struggle of the associations is far from easy. With legal actions stalled in the Superior Court of Justice (STJ), these leaders are now seeking direct dialogue with authorities from the STF and the Ministry of Health, in the hope of finding solutions that ensure adequate access to necessary medical treatments.

The meetings scheduled for this week represent a crucial opportunity for the voices of medicinal cannabis associations to be heard by the highest authorities in the country.  

Meeting Agenda:

March 12, 3:00 PM: Meeting at the Presidency's Office with Minister Luis Roberto Barroso, from the STF.

March 13, 2:00 PM: Meeting at the Council for Sustainable Economic Development (Conselhão) with Dr. Paulo Pereira.

March 13, 4:00 PM: Hearing at the Supreme Federal Court (STF) with Minister Luiz Fux.

March 14, 3:00 PM: Meeting at the Ministry of Health with the special advisor to Minister Nísia Trindade, Dr. Valcler Rangel.