Currently there is no regulation to farm hemp below 1% THC, however, there is a regulatory framework that is being produced for hemp to create an environment for both ganja and hemp farmers to coexist so the proper permissions are required.
CIM: What hurdles and obstacles do you currently see in the marketplace?
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VC: The lack of industry standards globally for a quality cannabis product has made it difficult for companies like ours, that operate out of the Caribbean region, to establish ourselves as a company that can produce a high-quality cannabis product which compares to a product coming from United States or Europe. We have accepted this unspoken challenge. It is very possible to produce some of the world’s best hemp right here in Jamaica. We have everything we need, from natural resources to local talent and equipment.
CIM: Do you have any plans to scale internationally?
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VC: Definitely, everything is a process and we look forward to perfecting our Jamaica project and prepare ourselves to scale internationally, all in good timing.
CIM: What does the domestic and international market look like for Hemp?
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VC: This is a very exciting time for hemp and CBD. In the United States we see CBD shops opening in many shopping centers throughout major cities. I’ve even seen two CBD shops open in the same month, in the same shopping strip. Doctors are carrying CBD products in their clinics and pharmacies are carrying products marketed for a wide range of uses.