The legalization of medical cannabis, signed by the President of Ukraine in February 2024, has the potential to transform the medical and agricultural sectors significantly. However, this new industry faces numerous challenges.
Uncertainty regarding the number of potential consumers of medical cannabis in Ukraine complicates planning. Estimates of patients requiring these medications range from 2 to 6 million people.
Pharmaceutical companies are reluctant to engage in cannabis cultivation due to the complexity of the processes and the plant's sensitivity to growing conditions. Meanwhile, agricultural enterprises lack the necessary infrastructure to manufacture drugs, maintain quality standards, and distribute.
In Ukraine, there is almost no infrastructure for the distribution of cannabis-based medications. The existing pharmacy network is unprepared for the sale of medical cannabis due to licensing requirements and the lack of practical skills among pharmacists. Only eight pharmacies have certification to manufacture drugs containing narcotic components.
Establishing a separate network of pharmacies for the distribution of medical cannabis requires significant investment. Unclear regulatory requirements and the lack of expertise in this field complicate the process. While Ukrainian entrepreneurs navigate the regulatory framework, the market might be occupied by imported cannabis.
Cultural acceptance of cannabis-based medications in Ukraine and the specific attitudes of law enforcement add additional risks for entrepreneurs.
Thus, medical cannabis has potential, but its realization requires substantial efforts and investments in infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, and personnel training.
Source: apteka.ua