Cannabis Goes Global: Hawaii, South Africa, Thailand And Germany Updates

Hawaii Governor Granted $200M In Discretionary Spending

Hawaii Gov. Josh Green has been given $200 million, raising concerns among state lawmakers. The grant was part of a plan that would have given Green control of more than $1 billion, but safeguards have been put in place, according to Yahoo Finance. While Green supports the continued viability of Hawaii's medical cannabis industry, there would be no indication that discretionary spending is related to marijuana. 

South African Herb Contains Cannabis Compounds

A South African herb called Helichrysum umbraculigerum, which has been used for traditional medicine, contains a compound called cannabigerolic acid found in the cannabis plant. This fast-growing plant has been traditionally used for medicine by indigenous peoples in South Africa and may offer a new source of cannabinoids, per Nature.

Old and new cannabis compounds are found in an African herb https://t.co/4ulPoiwAS6

— nature (@Nature) May 5, 2023

Thai Cannabis Growers Hit By Cheaper Illegal Imports From The U.S.

Thai cannabis entrepreneurs struggle against cheap illegal imports from the US as decriminalization and lack of regulation create uncertainty, reported Aljazeera. Foreign brokers are offering smuggled weed to dispensaries, driving prices up to two to five times the original price. Meanwhile, tourists are also flocking to Thailand for high-THC US strains. Local businesses are calling for support to protect the domestic market and support Thai growers and farmers.

Strict Rules Outlined For Germany's Cannabis Clubs

A new draft law for Germany's cannabis clubs outlines strict rules for cultivation, dispensing, and club membership. The clubs, also known as Anbauvereinigungen or cultivation associations, will be limited to 500 members who can only purchase a limited amount of cannabis per month. According to I Am Expat, members between 18 and 21 years old will have a THC content limit, and everyone must purchase cannabis in neutral packaging or unpackaged. The clubs must report their activity to the authorities annually and follow limitations on pesticide and fertilizer usage. Public marijuana consumption will also be restricted, and cannabis sales in pharmacies and specialty shops are still off the cards for now.

Image By El Planteo