The Mary Jane Society Podcast

102_ Inside The German Cannabis Industry

Episode Summary

Lisa Haag has been a journalist and public advocate for cannabis rights in Germany since 2017, and is often seen on stage at B2B events throughout Europe because of her in-depth knowledge of the industry. She publishes Krautinvest, an online B2B magazine that reports on cannabis policies, global news, social justice, scientific medical research, and interviews with industry experts. Her business consulting company, MJ Universe GmbH, helps companies navigate the European cannabis ecosystem through her team of experts. Lisa gives us insights into the current opportunities in the German cannabis market. https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-haag-60656097 https://krautinvest.de/ueber-krautinvest-de/#team https://www.mjuniverse.net/about

Episode Notes

KEY TALKING POINTS

·  German Cannabis Market: Germany has decriminalized possession up to 25 grams and allows home cultivation of up to three plants. Consumers can also join cannabis social clubs starting July 1st.

·  Medical Cannabis: Medical cannabis in Germany has become more accessible, with reduced barriers to prescription and health insurance coverage for severely ill patients under specific conditions.

·  Pharmacy Role in Medical Cannabis:

• Pharmacists follow specific recipes for tea infusions, grinding, and serving preparation.
• Pharmacists receive formal training and specialize in combining ingredients.
• Cannabis is treated as another ingredient in their portfolio.

·  Vape Devices and Methods:

• Herb vaporizing is integrated into the system, but cartridge vaping is still separate.
• Various methods like using metal cushions for extracts in vape devices.
• Medical environment requires a combination of device and extract.
• Doctors need to specifically prescribe, and pharmacies need to prepare accordingly.
• Complexity in coordinating between doctors and pharmacies for vape products.

·  Cannabis Product Innovation:

• Opportunity for creative supply to pharmacists.
• Development of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) for further processing.
• Companies creating kits for creams, suppositories, and inhalers.

·  Medical Community Involvement:

• Importance of training medical professionals in cannabis formulations.
• Potential for pharmaceutical companies to develop finished cannabis medicines.

·  German Market and Regulations:

• The market is still focused on products from five years ago with limited innovation.
• Government initiatives for more formal training and development.
• Legal and fair trade possibilities with countries like Morocco for high-quality products.

·  Recreational Use and Pillar Two:

• Germany's Pillar Two focuses on scientific evaluation of commercial cannabis processes.
• Studies on market acceptance, price sensitivity, and economic impact.
• Potential for importation of products under the scientific pillar, seen in Switzerland with brands like Banna.

·  Future of Cannabis Research:

• Increased scientific research opportunities in agriculture and medical fields.
• Exploring potential adaptogens and highly specialized medical applications.
• Long-term view on unlocking the full potential of cannabis for healthcare.

·  Investment and Market Dynamics:

• Early investment by companies can lead to competitive advantages.
• Need for collaboration among industry players and governments.
• Importance of tangible case studies and pilot projects for market development.