Global
Saint Lucia Considers the Economics of Cannabis Reform
An analysis presents a case for adult-use, among other reforms, as the country’s leaders consider how to shape legislation.
The British Virgin Islands: Yes to Medical Cannabis but No to Adult Use
With an eye toward exports, the BVI government aims to create a $30 million industry for domestically cultivated cannabis. But high fines and long sentences stay in place.
United Nations Report Suggests COVID-19 Lockdowns Are “Increasing Demand for Cannabis”
A new report on global drug trends also notes that cannabis accounts for more than half of all global drug law offenses, and “remains the main drug that brings people into contact with the criminal justice system.”
Colombia: Global Expectations, But Not For the Small Farmer
Many small farmers here would like to grow cannabis legally, but a rigid bureaucracy and stiff financial requirements are fencing them out.
Trinidad and Tobago: The Good, the Bad, and the Confusing From the First Six Months of Cannabis Decriminalization
Arrests are down, illicit crops are up, and everyone awaits further legislation.
Bermuda Talks Banking as Cannabis Bill Goes to Public Consultations
A draft bill to legalize cannabis for adult use was released last week for public input.
Barbados: A Medical Cannabis Industry Seems Close to Launch, but Small Farmers Fear They’ll Be Left Behind
At a meeting, regulators hear worries that big international companies will dominate.
As U.S. Virgin Islands Governor Reintroduces Cannabis Legalization, Debate Returns to Taxes
A similar bill failed in December amid debate over whether cannabis tax revenue should go toward saving the pension fund, or toward boosting other sectors, such as infrastructure and tourism.
Jamaica: As the Cannabis Industry Awaits Delayed Reforms, Regulators Push Temporary Measures
With cannabis developments slowed by the COVID-19 pandemic, bureaucrats shift some regulations to boost the industry, such as export and online sales for patients.
Jamaica: Cannabis Export Rules, Though Eagerly Anticipated, Are Delayed
But post COVID-19 pandemic, the nation still aims for growth in the industry.
New Zealand Government Releases Final Cannabis Legalization Plan
A referendum will take place in September in New Zealand, where medical cannabis is already legal.
Australia Moves to Allow CBD Sales Over the Counter, Calls for Public Input
Today, cannabidiol is in Schedule 4, and therefore allowed only with a prescription.
Mexico: Senate Asks Supreme Court for More Time on Cannabis Legalization
Mexican lawmakers were racing to meet an April 30 deadline to legalize cannabis for adult use. And then coronavirus hit.
New Zealand Officially Launches its Medicinal Cannabis Program
New rules take effect April 1, including fewer barriers for doctors prescribing products, and available licenses for cultivators and manufacturers.
The Coronavirus Pandemic is Slowing Cannabis Reform in the Caribbean
Parliamentary meetings, regulatory rule setting, and investment summits are being postponed, slowing what had been steady progress in the region.
The Netherlands: In a Pandemic, Rules for Cannabis Coffee Shops Are Rapidly Evolving
As the virus took hold, the outlets were closed. But when street dealers quickly moved in, the government began to rethink the situation.
