Industrial hemp is the highlight of the 16th issue of the “Commodities at a Glance” series, a report published by CUnited Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). O document praises the role of industrial hemp in the economy and society and recommends clear measures to governments to distinguish industrial hemp from cannabis, asking them to also promote the full use of the plant. The global hemp market could reach €18 billion by 2027.
The industrial hemp sector was, once again, recognized for its potential, growth and applications but also, and fundamentally, for everything that still needs to be done, reveals a new UN document (United Nations). The report published by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) explains how developing countries can exploit the economic and social potential of hemp and how these are reflected in international production and trade statistics.
Based on current practical experiences and empirical knowledge, the UN suggests steps that can be taken by countries where the climate and agronomic characteristics are favorable for its cultivation, in order to fully exploit the potential of industrial hemp. A specific example of measures is the positive distinction of status law of hemp, which clearly differentiates it from 'intoxicating cannabis'. Similar awareness is referred to the sectoral development strategy, which should focus on fully exploiting the plant. This approach can contribute to the creation of production chains that contribute to the growth of rural areas, manufacturing and the food processing industry, for a sector that is projected to grow from 5 to 15 billion euros in 5 years.
With the participation and collaboration of Francesco Mirizzi and Kenzi Riboulet-Zemouli, as well as comments by Lorenza Romanese, from the European Industrial Hemp Association, the report is organized into 6 chapters.
Chapter 1: Introduction
Chapter 2: It presents the definitions and taxonomy related to the species Cannabis L.., followed by a description of its botanical properties and ecological characteristics. The chapter ends with an assessment of the international treaties that regulate industrial hemp production.
Chapter 3: It discusses the value chain of the industrial hemp sector. Describes the production options and constraints that major producers face. It then looks at potential challenges and opportunities for processors. Finally, the chapter analyzes the effect of consumer preferences and their evolution on market trends.
Chapter 4: It presents some facts and figures about hemp production, followed by information related to the international trade in hemp products. The last section discusses tariffs and nomenclature related to the hemp trade.
Chapter 5: Discusses the prices of industrial hemp products, based on commercial unit values and prices published by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and various other sources.
Chapter 6: Highlights policy issues for governments to consider to promote the development of industrial hemp.
The report also presents Portugal as the third largest importer of hemp fiber in Europe (mainly from China and Tunisia), alongside Italy, which is the largest exporter in Europe. Portugal was one of the first to export hemp to Canada, however, at the moment, the exported quantities are insignificant.
Raw materials are products derived from agricultural production or mineral production that have not yet been transformed: agricultural products, tropical drinks, energy, minerals, ores and metals. The “Commodities at a Glance” series aims to collect, present and disseminate accurate and relevant statistical information related to international primary commodity markets, in a clear, concise and easy-to-read format.
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