Zimbabwe Set To Legalize Hemp

Zimbabwe is expected to legalize the growing of industrial hemp for export.

Government revealed the plans earlier this week, describing hemp as a potential substitute for tobacco. Tobacco remains Zimbabwe’s biggest export earning crop but is facing an uncertain future in light of efforts to reduce consumption because of the negative health impacts. 

Under existing legislation cannabis can only be grown for medical or scientific uses. However, cabinet has now approved the repeal of laws banning hemp cultivation. The move was announced by Minister of Information Monica Mutsvangwa. 

The Government of Zimbabwe is looking for various ways to raise revenues as it struggles with a foreign currency crunch, inflation and critical shortages.