The Brazilian market for medical cannabis is attracting the attention of international players due to its population volume. Additionally, the advancement of research in areas still little explored in Europe, such as veterinary medicine, is attracting foreign interest.

During the last edition of the Brazilian Congress of Medical Cannabis (CBCM), Steve Molloy, an American executive based in Amsterdam and representing a production in North Macedonia, highlighted the national potential. He sees a competitive advantage in the engagement of local professionals.

The account comes at a time of high expectations for the 5th edition of the event. The meeting will be held in May 2026, in São Paulo, promising to bring together the main authorities in the sector.

International Production and Interest in Medical Cannabis

Molloy operates in a facility that annually produces two tons of dried flowers and medicinal extracts. With EUGMP certification, the company exports to established markets such as Germany, England, and Switzerland, but prioritizes entry into Brazil.

The specialist, who monitors the opening of borders in various countries, notes that Brazil is going through a maturation period. "I think it will change very quickly here when they open up. Everyone is already tired because they were waiting for so long and they can't see that it's coming," he assessed.

At the end of January 2026, the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) approved historic resolutions for the sector. The agency defined the rules for national cultivation, dividing it into three fronts: associative, scientific, and industrial.

The industrial model requires special authorization for varieties with up to 0.3% THC, focusing on the production of pharmaceutical inputs. Patient associations enter a "Regulatory Sandbox," allowing cultivation for non-profit purposes under health supervision.

Another crucial change was the update of RDC 327, which allowed the operation of compounding pharmacies. The regulation allows the magistral sector to produce medicinal cannabis derivatives, expanding access and treatment customization in the country.

Veterinary Research as a Competitive Advantage

One of the aspects that most impressed the executive in the local scenario was the development of medical cannabis in veterinary medicine. The sector will have an exclusive module, VetCannabis, at the 2026 edition of the CBCM.

Molloy pointed out that this application is even rare in developed markets in Europe. "I have never seen anything like it in another country. In Germany, which is the largest market in Europe, maybe they have it, but I have never heard of it," he compared.

For him, the possibility of conducting clinical research with animals can accelerate the confirmation of treatment effectiveness. "This is very important for conducting research, to see that it is working well," the executive stated.

Perspectives for the 5th CBCM

Molloy's testimony reinforces the role of the CBCM as a hub for networking and scientific updates on medical cannabis. The executive emphasized that the "passion" of Brazilian participants is essential for the industry's sustainability.

The 5th edition of the congress will take place from May 21 to 23, 2026, at the Transamerica Expo Center in São Paulo. The event will feature specialized modules in areas such as MedCan, OdontoCannabis, and Agro & Tech.

The meeting will occur simultaneously with the Cannabis Fair, bringing together brands and experts. The expectation is to discuss the new directions of regulation and business opportunities in the country.

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Event: 5th Brazilian Congress of Medical Cannabis (CBCM) 

Date: May 21-23, 2026 

Location: Transamerica Expo Center – São Paulo, SP

Get your ticket here: Cannabis Fair | CBCM