Over 672,000 Patients Treated with Medical Cannabis in Brazil

The use of medical cannabis in Brazil is gaining momentum, with over 672,000 patients treated in 2024—a 56% increase from the previous year, according to data released by Kaya Mind. This growing segment reflects both increased acceptance and advancements in cannabis regulation, solidifying Brazil’s position as a burgeoning hub in the global cannabis market.

Medical Cannabis Market Sees Robust Growth

The medical cannabis market in Brazil generated R$ 853 million (US$ 142.16 million) in revenue this year, a 22% increase from 2023’s R$ 699 million (US$ 116.5 million). This growth trajectory is expected to continue, with the market projected to reach R$ 1 billion (US$ 166.66 million) by 2025.

Kaya Mind CEO Maria Eugenia Riscala highlighted the significance of this expansion: “The growth of medical cannabis in Brazil is evident, not only in the increasing numbers but in how it’s becoming an integral part of patient care routines nationwide.”

• Increased Accessibility: Patients across 80% of Brazil’s 5,570 municipalities now have access to cannabis treatments.
• Product Diversity: Over 2,180 medicinal cannabis products cater to a wide range of therapeutic needs.
• Regulatory Advancements: Progressive cannabis regulations, including the Supreme Court’s approval of plant cultivation, have opened new opportunities for patients and businesses.

A Competitive Market on the Global Stage

This year, 413 foreign companies exported medical cannabis products to Brazil, contributing to the diversification of available items such as oils, capsules, sprays, and topicals. Kaya’s Head of Intelligence, Thiago Cardoso, emphasized the importance of these developments, stating, “This progress enables more patients to find therapeutic solutions tailored to their needs and positions Brazil as a competitive and innovative market on the global stage.”

Product Categories:

• Capsules and Oils: Widely used for chronic pain and neurological conditions.
• Sprays and Topicals: Popular for localized relief and dermatological treatments.

While the market is expanding, product visibility remains a challenge, with many items struggling to stand out on retail shelves. However, growing consumer awareness and demand are likely to improve market dynamics in the near future.

Regulatory Advances Propel Market Expansion

Brazil’s regulatory landscape for cannabis has undergone significant transformations, with the Supreme Court’s approval of plant cultivation marking a milestone. This regulatory shift has:

• Reduced Dependency on Imports: Encouraged domestic cultivation and production.
• Boosted Accessibility: Lowered costs and improved the availability of products for patients.
• Enhanced Market Competitiveness: Allowed local companies to enter the market alongside international exporters.

These advancements have made Brazil a focal point in the global medical cannabis industry, attracting investment and innovation.

Looking Ahead: Opportunities and Challenges

The rapid growth of medical cannabis in Brazil is a promising development, but challenges remain. These include:

• Product Awareness: Many patients are still unfamiliar with the benefits and uses of medical cannabis.
• Regulatory Complexity: While regulations are improving, navigating the legal framework can still be a hurdle for businesses.
• Market Competition: The influx of foreign and domestic products has intensified competition, requiring brands to differentiate themselves effectively.

Despite these challenges, the potential for growth is undeniable. With increasing patient adoption, regulatory support, and market expansion, Brazil is well-positioned to become a leader in the global medical cannabis sector.