Medicinal cannabis will be produced for export only, says Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica.
While opening the Fiji Medical Association 62nd Annual Scientific Conference at the Shangri-La Fijian Resort in Sigatoka yesterday, Mr Kamikamica said the Government was embarking on establishing the medicinal cannabis industry in Fiji.
“The intention is to allow reputable operators from overseas to establish a ring-fenced and confined facility in Fiji for cultivation, production and manufacturing medicinal cannabis for export only,” said Mr Kamikamica.
“There is a market demand for medicinal cannabis in Israel, Germany, including our neighbour, Australia.
“With this in mind, we aim to use this opportunity to stimulate Fiji’s economic growth through investment and trade.”
Mr Kamikamica said there was no doubt that there were significant economic benefits of the cannabis industry.
“With the establishment of the industry, that is our aim to gain the economic benefits for the people of Fiji.
“We will be conducting nationwide consultation from October 9 to October 19 in collaboration with the Medicinal Cannabis Task Force that includes the Ministry of Health and Medical Services.
“This is to develop the feasibility study for medicinal cannabis in Fiji.
“We seek your support as medical professionals with the introduction of the medicinal cannabis industry in Fiji and disseminating the correct information in the communities you serve.”
Public consultations on medicinal cannabis will begin at Epsworth Hall in Suva at 10am on October 9.
