Caribbean Cannabis Industry Seeks to Expand Domestic Sales and Exports
In the Caribbean, the cannabis industry is thriving, with many countries having legalized the drug for medical and recreational use. Antigua and Barbuda, Jamaica, and other islands in the region are now home to a plethora of legally registered cannabis farms and medicinal dispensaries.
Antigua-based cannabis grower Michaelus Tracey is one of the pioneers in the industry. He has developed nine strains of cannabis, each with its unique flavor profile and medicinal properties. The warm temperatures, abundant sunshine, and high humidity on the island make it an ideal location for growing cannabis.
The industry is not without its challenges, however. High overhead costs and strict regulations have led to a thriving illegal market. According to Jacana, a Jamaica-based company that sells cannabis products, 90% of the drug consumed in Jamaica comes from illegal sources.
Despite these challenges, the industry is growing, and many experts believe that further liberalization is needed. Prof Rose-Marie Belle Antoine, an expert on the cannabis industry in the Caribbean, argues that decriminalization is not enough and that the drug should be legalized but regulated.
The region is also looking to export cannabis to other countries, including the United States. Jamaica’s Cannabis Licensing Authority has already put in place interim administrative procedures to facilitate the export of cannabis to countries that have legalized its use.
Antigua and Barbuda’s Medicinal Cannabis Authority is also working to develop a cannabis export industry. The country has a prime geographical location and an international airport, making it an attractive location for exporting cannabis.
The industry is also having a positive impact on social justice, particularly for the Rastafarian community. In 2018, Antigua’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne issued a formal apology to the Rastafarians for decades of persecution and abuse over their cannabis use. The government has also granted Rastafarians official sacramental authorization to grow cannabis and plans to expunge the criminal records of those previously prosecuted for possession of small amounts of marijuana.
As the industry continues to grow, experts believe that it has the potential to boost agriculture and improve soil health. Researchers at the University of the West Indies are studying the potential benefits of cannabis, including its ability to alleviate the side effects of cancer treatment.
Overall, the Caribbean cannabis industry is poised for growth and expansion, both domestically and internationally. With its ideal climate, innovative approaches to regulation, and commitment to social justice, the region is well-positioned to become a leader in the global cannabis industry.
