Panama's Medical Cannabis Industry Grows

24/01/2024
Cargo ship in Panama Canal

Panama's Milestone in Medical Cannabis

Panama has taken a significant step in its healthcare sector by granting licenses to seven companies for manufacturing medical cannabis products. This move comes after the Central American country legalized medical cannabis in October 2021, showcasing its commitment to advancing medical treatments and research.

The First Cannabis Manufacturing Licenses

These licenses, awarded by Panama's National Directorate of Pharmacy and Drugs, are the first of their kind since the legalization of medical cannabis. The seven companies granted licenses are Canna Med Panama, Consorcio Adeiwa Pharma, Consorcio Ecovid, Consorcio Green Med, Consorcio Panamericana de Cannabis, Consorcio Tilray Panama, and Farma Verde Corp.

Regulatory Framework for Medical Cannabis

In 2022, Panama adopted regulations via executive decrees to govern cannabis consumption and access for therapeutic, medical, veterinary, scientific, and research purposes. These regulations apply to legal entities involved in the import, export, cultivation, and marketing of cannabis and its derivatives for medical or scientific use.

Key Aspects of the Cannabis Regulations

The decrees outline several critical aspects of the regulatory framework, including:

  • Listing health conditions that qualify for medical cannabis use, such as Alzheimer’s, cancer, HIV, and arthritis.
  • Requiring licensed doctors to receive specialized training to prescribe cannabis.
  • Establishing a patient registry.
  • Stipulating that the National Directorate of Pharmacies and Drugs regulates import/export activities.
  • Creating the National Directorate for the Monitoring of Activities Related to Medicinal Cannabis.

President's Statement on Medical Cannabis

President Laurentino Cortizo highlighted Panama's robust regulations for medicinal and therapeutic cannabis consumption, emphasizing the relief it brings to thousands of patients who have long awaited this solution.

Evaluation and Approval Process

The evaluation document for the seven businesses, detailing the comprehensive process and criteria for granting these licenses, is a testament to Panama's thorough approach in integrating medical cannabis into its healthcare system.

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Robin Roy Krigslund-Hansen

Robin Roy Krigslund-Hansen

About the author:

Robin Roy Krigslund-Hansen is known for his extensive knowledge and expertise in the fields of CBD and hemp production. With a career spanning over a decade in the cannabis industry, he has dedicated his life to understanding the intricacies of these plants and their potential benefits to human health and the environment. Over the years, Robin has worked tirelessly to promote the full legalization of hemp in Europe. His fascination with the plant's versatility and potential for sustainable production led him to pursue a career in the field.

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