The medical cannabis market in Germany is evolving rapidly, driven by skyrocketing demand since access was made easier last April. This is evident in the sharp increase in imports, proving once again that it's the medical, not the recreational sector, that warrants attention. It's no wonder that cannabis giant Aurora was one of the early movers in Germany, securing a license for local production of medical flowers. "Our indoor cultivation facility was built according to the requirements of the German tender we won," says Dirk Heitepriem, Vice President of External Affairs at Aurora Europe.
From this hub in the heart of Europe, the company also serves the UK and Polish markets while keeping an eye on other markets such as the Czech Republic, Switzerland, and Malta. "But Germany, the UK, and Poland remain our core markets," Dirk points out.
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From Canada to Germany
Aurora received their federal license to cultivate and sell medical cannabis in 2015, an experience that has proved extremely valuable in efficiently tackling an emerging market. "Through our years in Canada, we have gained a better understanding of what patients need. This means that we not only have a clear focus on producing high-quality medical products from a pharmaceutical standpoint but also understand how they are perceived from the consumer's perspective. The experience in North America has been incredibly helpful in meeting patients' demands."
While the company has been supplying medical cannabis to Germany since 2017, they only recently launched a locally grown product. "This locally grown product is the first to be launched from our EU-GMP and GACP-certified indoor cultivation facility in Leuna." The facility spans over 3,600 m², utilizes LED technology and can produce one ton of cannabis per year.
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Growing in Germany
In Germany, there are only three licensed producers, with Aurora being one of them. It goes without saying that this type of local production is crucial for a country whose demand has been growing with no signs of slowing down. "Over the last couple of years, we've seen many competitors entering the market, which is very healthy for a growing industry. Product availability increases, as well as potency and variety."
Per German regulations, Aurora is allowed to grow only one strain in their facility. However, Dirk points out that the company is currently exploring ways to improve its product lines and the facility to meet the demand of the German market. "We are looking into how we can utilize the facility moving forward, given our positioning in the German and European markets."
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