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The Transformative Journey of Cannabis: Opportunities in Industrial and Medicinal Cannabis Industries

In recent years, Cannabis has emerged from the shadows of societal stigma and has undergone a transformative journey that has opened up numerous opportunities in the Industrial and Medicinal Cannabis industries. Stepping into the spotlight, cannabis has become a catalyst for change in healthcare, construction, textiles, and many more industries. Today, over 45 countries have embraced full or partial legalization of cannabis for medical use, reflecting a global shift in perspectives. This changing legal landscape has played a pivotal role in mainstreaming cannabis, creating opportunities for research, development, and commercialization.

Industrial Cannabis: Paving the Way for Sustainable Innovation

Derived from Cannabis Sativa, Industrial Cannabis features less than 0.3% Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and a higher Cannabidiol (CBD) content. This variant of cannabis is leading the charge in sustainable innovation and is reshaping industries such as textiles, construction materials, and food products.

Medicinal Cannabis: Revolutionizing Pain Management

Primarily derived from the Cannabis Indica/Sativa plant, medicinal cannabis offers a THC content greater than 0.3%, making it psychoactive and medically valuable. The medicinal applications of cannabis, particularly in the form of CBD and THC-based products, have revolutionized pain management by providing therapeutic effects through interactions with the endocannabinoid system.

The Cannabis Revolution: Unveiling Vast Potential Beyond Recreation

Once overshadowed by its psychoactive properties, cannabis is now experiencing a paradigm shift. Scientific discoveries and evolving societal attitudes have unlocked its vast potential beyond recreational use. The realms of medicinal and industrial cannabis are at the forefront of this revolution, holding the key to a future marked by sustainability, innovation, and healing. Numerous clinical trials have been conducted worldwide to study the medical benefits of CBD and THC for treating various ailments.

Empowering Pakistan: Integrating into the Global Cannabis Market

Pakistan stands at a pivotal juncture as the global landscape embraces cannabis. The country has existing cannabis cultivation spanning approximately 50,000 acres in Newly Merged Tribal Districts (NMTD) with a potential market value of approximately $3 Billion. Despite the potential for significant contributions to the booming international cannabis market, reservations about cannabis perception and misuse pose hurdles to legalization.

To overcome these hurdles, Pakistan aims to bring existing cannabis cultivation under the legal umbrella. The objectives include imposing a complete ban on recreational use, curbing illicit drug trafficking, providing enhanced incentives to growers, developing and manufacturing cannabis-based medicines for local use and export, and generating significant income tax revenue for both provincial and federal governments.

A Global Model for Regularization of Illegal Cannabis Cultivation

Morocco faced a similar situation with existing cannabis cultivation in the Rif region. However, Morocco took a decisive step to legalize and regulate its cannabis market, leading to substantial economic gains. By tapping into a lucrative market through exports and related activities, Morocco has provided a legal framework for cannabis cultivation and significantly contributed to the national economy. Pakistan can draw inspiration from Morocco’s success and explore similar approaches to embrace and regulate cannabis cultivation in the country.

Greening Industries: The Sustainable Path of Industrial Cannabis

Industrial cannabis, with its sustainable and versatile nature, is transforming various sectors. With applications in textiles, construction materials, and food products, its market value reached USD 5.66 Billion in 2020 and is projected to achieve USD 23.72 Billion by 2030, reflecting an impressive CAGR of 25.17% from 2021 to 2028.

The cultivation of industrial cannabis promotes renewable agriculture and eco-friendly practices. With minimal pesticide and synthetic fertilizer requirements, its rapid growth and deep roots prevent soil erosion. Additionally, industrial cannabis has carbon-sequestering abilities, making it a valuable player in the fight against climate change.

Utilizations of Industrial Cannabis: A Multifaceted Approach

The applications of industrial cannabis as a raw material are diverse. It can be transformed into premium textiles, paper, biodegradable plastics, and insulation building materials. Cannabis seeds, highly nutritious and rich in essential fatty acids, offer a sustainable substitute for edible oils. Furthermore, cannabis-derived medicinal products show potential therapeutic properties, providing relief for various medical conditions.

However, the production of industrial cannabis comes with technical and regulatory challenges. The choice between cultivating for fiber, seeds, or cannabinoids significantly impacts various production factors, requiring a meticulous approach to optimize yield along the value chain.

Revolutionizing Pakistan’s Textile Sector with Industrial Cannabis

Pakistan, as the 8th largest textile exporter in Asia, achieved a remarkable milestone in the fiscal year 2022 with $18.31 billion in textile exports. As the industry seeks avenues for growth and diversification, integrating Industrial Cannabis fiber into the textile landscape presents a groundbreaking opportunity. Cannabis fiber commands a premium price, promising lucrative returns. Moreover, the cultivation and processing of Industrial Cannabis fiber demonstrate a commendable commitment to sustainability, offering an eco-friendly alternative to conventional cotton.

Pakistan already boasts a robust fiber processing infrastructure, positioning it strategically for the integration of Cannabis fiber into existing setups. This seamless transition not only streamlines the process but also addresses environmental concerns, making the textile industry more sustainable.

Source: https://dailytimes.com.pk