Kazakhstan approves legalization of industrial hemp

Kazakhstan’s lower house of parliament, known as the Mazhilis, recently approved the cultivation of industrial hemp, a move that is part of a broader legislative initiative aimed at eliminating unnecessary regulations in internal affairs departments. Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs Sanzhar Adilov confirmed the regulation during a recent parliamentary session and Kazakhstan’s commitment to more sustainable practices.

This legal reform enables Kazakhstan to enter the global market for industrial hemp, which is recognized for its diverse applications in multiple sectors, including textiles, paper, construction and bioplastics. By allowing the legal cultivation of cannabis for industrial purposes, Kazakhstan positions itself as a nation that follows global trends and focuses on environmentally friendly innovation.

In accordance with the statement of Deputy Minister Adilov, four licences have been issued under the new regulatory framework, exclusively for industrial purposes. The legalisation initiative is in line with Kazakhstan’s broader economic objectives, namely diversifying production and reducing dependence on imported raw materials. The move is expected to attract domestic and international investors interested in the green economy, which has been experiencing exponential growth.

Hemp vs. Cannabis: Differences Explained to Lawmakers

In response to concerns raised in Mazhilis about potential drug misuse or trafficking, authorities clarified the fundamental differences between industrial hemp and high-THC cannabis. Adilov reassured lawmakers by highlighting the chemical distinction: “Wild-grown cannabis in the Chui Valley can contain more than 15% THC, while industrial hemp is limited to just 0,1% to 0,3%. This type of crop is not of interest to recreational drug users or drug traffickers.”

This difference makes industrial hemp unsuitable for recreational drug use and its cultivation is fully compliant with existing drug laws. Furthermore, the government has committed to strict control and regulation, with anti-narcotics units overseeing every stage of the production process.

A green light for sustainable industries

Industrial hemp is recognised worldwide for its potential in environmentally friendly and sustainable production. Kazakhstan has now joined the growing list of nations exploring the environmental and economic benefits of hemp, which is recognised for its rapid growth, low water requirements and ability to grow without the use of pesticides. These characteristics give hemp a major advantage in implementing sustainable agricultural practices, benefiting sectors such as papermaking (hemp pulp offers a renewable alternative to wood-based paper, significantly reducing deforestation), textiles and construction (the hempcrete, made from hemp and lime, is a carbon-neutral building material that is gaining popularity in green construction).

Rekindling a vision of the past

Industrial hemp production is not new to Kazakhstan. More than a decade ago, the National Chamber of Entrepreneurs “Atameken” proposed using hemp to reduce the country’s dependence on imported office paper. At that time, Kazakhstan spent approximately $100 million annually on foreign paper products.

This initiative was supported by then Deputy Prime Minister Dariga Nazarbayeva, daughter of former President Nursultan Nazarbayev. However, the proposal did not receive full support from the government, which resulted in its shelving.

Today, the landscape has changed considerably. With the government now in the driver’s seat, this renewed initiative has institutional support and regulatory oversight, two critical components that were previously missing.

Industrial hemp cultivation has already begun in Kazakhstan

An agricultural enterprise in the Kostanay region has already started growing and processing industrial hemp under one of the recently issued licenses. This farm serves as a pilot model, demonstrating the viability and benefits of industrial hemp in the agricultural context of Kazakhstan.

The success of such ventures should encourage other farmers and manufacturers to explore hemp cultivation, leading to job creation, rural development and a more sustainable national economy. To ensure the integrity of the programme, Kazakhstan’s anti-drug agencies will play a proactive role in overseeing the cultivation and processing of industrial hemp. This oversight is designed to ensure strict compliance with THC content limits and prevent any misuse.

This balanced approach, which encompasses both economic opportunity and public safety, reflects Kazakhstan’s commitment to regulating industrial hemp production.

Looking to the Future: A New Era for Kazakhstan’s Green Economy

The legalization of industrial hemp reflects a substantial shift in Kazakhstan’s agricultural and industrial policy, and is a bold step forward for the future of its sustainable industry. Given the growing global demand for environmentally friendly materials, Kazakhstan is well positioned to become a regional leader in industrial hemp production.

With appropriate regulation, institutional support and growing interest from the private sector, this initiative is poised to open new economic avenues while contributing to environmental sustainability.

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João Xabregas

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With a professional background in CAD technical drawing (2D and 3D), João Xabregas is an activist and advocate for all uses and applications of cannabis. He discovered and entered the world of cannabis during his youth, where he developed a special interest in the cultivation of the plant, which led him on a journey of self-learning through the world of cannabis that continues to this day. His adventures linked to cannabis cultivation began with the same goal as many others: to be able to guarantee the quality and eliminate any possible risks to his health of what he consumed, as well as to avoid any type of dependence on the illicit market. However, he quickly began to view the world of cannabis and everything related to it with a very different perspective. He admits the enormous passion he has for the most persecuted plant in the world and about which he is always willing to write and have a good conversation.

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