Alex Rogers
Ngaio Bealum
Alex Rogers, Executive Producer of the International Cannabis Business Conference, welcomes conference attendees and provides an overview of the conference schedule, including the panels and speakers that will be providing presentations and interviews. Ngaio Bealum will be the Master of Ceremonies.
Breaking down Germany’s new cannabis legalization law
Germany is now the largest and most influential country to ever pass a national adult-use cannabis legalization measure. Georg Wurth, leader of the German Hemp Association (DHV), will provide background information about the history of German cannabis policy, how the cannabis movement arrived at where it is currently, and what people can expect in Germany going forward. Wurth will explain what components will be involved in Germany’s legalization model, and what advocates can do to help ensure that Germany has the best cannabis policies possible.
Georg Wurth
Analyzing what has happened in places that have legalized cannabis
Adult-use cannabis legalization has started to spread in recent years in North America, South America, and Europe. For many years it was unknown what would happen when a country or smaller jurisdiction would implement an adult-use legalization measure, however, that is no longer the case. Legal jurisdictions are proving in real time that legalization is a superior approach to public policy compared to prohibition. Yoko Miyashita, CEO of Leafly, will share observations from Leafly’s 13-year history observing and operating in jurisdictions that have modernized their cannabis policies to permit adult use, and discuss what lessons other nations can learn from North America’s legalization journey.
Yoko Miyashita
Challenges, Pitfalls and Outlook
Several nations on the European continent are working to update their cannabis policies and regulations to embrace the rising legal cannabis industry, with multiple countries now being home to thriving markets. Internationally renowned cannabis expert Peter Homberg, partner at leading business law firm Dentons, provides an update about current cannabis policy modernization efforts underway in European member states. Homberg will also examine major economic developments in Europe’s emerging legal cannabis industry, as well as some prognostic outlooks on significant legal trends arising from the continent’s cannabis movement.
Peter Homberg
A new opportunity for the market?
Claudia Della Mora
Kai-Friedrich Niermann
Benedikt Sons
Dr. Philipp Goebel
Thomas Schatton
In November 2023, the German government surprisingly decided to lift all restrictions on the cultivation of medicinal cannabis in Germany. In the future, probably from April 1, 2024, the three already licensed growers of medical cannabis in Germany will be able to produce cannabis without quantity and product restrictions. However, any other company that can grow cannabis to pharmaceutical standards can also apply for a license. The panel will discuss what consequences this decision will have for the national and international markets. Will there be a “Green Rush”, similar to 2017 and 2018?
(Not) on the plate: EU’s Dilemma with Cannabinoids and Novel Food
Ricardo Geada
Sita Schubert
Constant Ma
Delve into the complex world of cannabinoid regulations in foodstuff in the EU. This discussion looks at the implementation and enforcement of regulations pertaining to Cannabinoids in food products, unravelling the diverse approaches adopted by EU member states. Explore the complexity between regional regulations and overarching EU guidelines, shedding light on the disparities within the union. From varied national perspectives to harmonization and authorization attempts within the EU, we will dissect the challenges of establishing novel food status for hemp food ingredients and cannabinoids – including ongoing side challenges with health claims, novel cannabinoids like HHC or 4HCBD and inappropriate marketing. Join us to gain insights into the legal complexities surrounding the risk assessment of cannabinoids, an issue that extends far beyond culinary preferences.
What opportunities exist for Germany’s cannabis club sector?
Alex Revich
Tarak Badawi
Margret Knitter, LL.M.
Stefan Röhrl
One of the main components of Germany’s adult-use legalization law involves permitting cannabis clubs to operate under certain conditions. Cannabis clubs will largely serve as the primary source for consumers in Germany until regional adult-use pilot programs are launched. Panelists will provide the most current information regarding cannabis club regulations in Germany.
What lessons from the cannabis industry’s past still resonate today?
Spiros Malandrakis
Marcus “Bubbleman” Richardson
Jorge Sanchez
Tyler Kearns
Andrew Freedman
The emerging legal cannabis industry is at a historic turning point, with the cannabis movement achieving policy reform victories at a seemingly increasing rate on nearly every continent. With Germany’s Parliament recently approving an adult-use legalization measure, the cannabis industry is guaranteed to evolve at a more rapid pace going forward, particularly in Europe. Legacy operators who possess a wealth of knowledge and experience will play a more vital role than ever in the emerging industry. A panel of representatives from the legacy cannabis industry will discuss the most important lessons that they have learned over the years, and how the modern cannabis industry can benefit from being educated about the industry’s past.
Delving into the numbers behind Germany’s emerging industry
Delving into the numbers behind Germany’s emerging industry
This session, led by leading cannabis economist Beau Whitney, will examine the economic potential of adult-use cannabis legalization in Germany. The presentation will provide data on the total estimated number of consumers, the Total Addressable Market, job creation potential, potential tax revenue generation, total supply required and the overall economic impact on the German economy. Who needs a pilsner when you can get drunk on data?
Beau Whitney
Overcoming hurdles with practical strategies
Yoram Eshel, CEO of Cannabilog, will provide an in-depth overview of the global cannabis logistics map, including lessons learned from 2023 as well as a forecast for what to expect during 2024. Eshel will present two case studies that highlight the unique challenges facing the international cannabis supply chain, and successful solutions that were incorporated to overcome complicated hurdles. He will also discuss components that entities should keep/maintain in their current strategies and which areas to focus on improving in the future.
Yoram Eshel
Exploring the therapeutic applications of cannabinoids
Michael Knodt
Dr. Markus Roggen
Prof Dr. Tamara Lah Turmšek
Dr. Markus Veit
Cannabinoid research is one of the most exciting areas of the cannabis science field, with new information being discovered about the potential therapeutic benefits of cannabinoids on a seemingly frequent basis. As we learn more about the cannabinoids that make up the cannabis plant and their unique qualities, research must be conducted with a focus on applying knowledge toward developing wellness products and cannabis therapies for patients. This panel will discuss the unique challenges facing the cannabinoid research field, results from recent research efforts, and what the future may hold for therapeutic applications of cannabinoids.
Crafting science-driven medications for evolving patient needs
Dwayne Stewart
Tjalling Erkelens
Barinder Bhullar
Kevin Koby
Michael Mayne
International cannabis researchers are unlocking more knowledge about the cannabis plant’s wellness capabilities now than at any other time in human history. That research, in turn, is providing valuable insight for scientists and engineers to incorporate science-driven findings into their medical cannabis product development. Panelists will discuss emerging medical cannabis product concepts and trends, and how the evolving needs of patients are helping drive niche product development.
Research and development in cannabinoid-based pharmaceuticals
Justin Tombe
Francesco Bafunno
Prof. Dr. Dr. Christian Ulrichs
Athanasia Kanli
Božidar Radišic
We currently live in the most exciting time in human history for cannabis research, thanks in large part to eroding prohibition policies around the world and the emergence of the international medical cannabis industry. Demand for cannabinoid-based pharmaceutical products is greater now than ever before, and with more countries modernizing their cannabis policies to permit the research and development of such products, the future is very bright for the cannabinoid pharmaceutical sector. This panel is dedicated to discussing the future of cannabinoid-based pharmaceutical research and product development.
Featuring Special Guests DJ G and Rocker T
The challenges & rewards for scientific cannabinoid advancement
The field of cannabinoid research is advancing, with new discoveries being made about the potential therapeutic benefits of these compounds. However, for these discoveries to be translated into effective treatments for patients, it is essential that proper due diligence is done, and well-designed clinical trials programs are initiated. In this presentation, we will discuss the course, challenges, considerations, and rewards for advancing the cannabinoid scientific research landscape.
- The course – why should we care enough to pioneer the scientific research landscape
- The challenges – why is it only the courageous that pursue this new medical frontier
- The considerations to minimise risk and inform sound investment decision making
- The rewards – Is it worth it?
- Despite the promising potential of cannabinoids, there is still a need for more rigorous scientific research to fully understand their therapeutic benefits.
Discover why the time is right and the time is now.
Barinder Bhullar
High Hurdles: Regulatory Catch-up on the Licit Cannabis Frontier
Daniel Haymann
Gašper Friškovec
Lisa Haag
Atiyyah Ferouz
Frederik Bockslaff
What are the biggest regulatory challenges faced by the emerging cannabis industry? In this panel, our experts will provide insight into the interplay between industry growth and regulatory responsiveness, where the lingering echoes of the global war on drugs and the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs pose substantial obstacles. Uncover the influence of corporate interests in shaping regulatory landscapes, complicating the path to effective oversight. A limited number of countries have established regulations for hemp, medicinal cannabis or adult-use cannabis. This creates national bottlenecks and fragmented industries in developing nations and sales markets. This panel will help to understand the dynamic relationship between regulators and the cannabis market, often triggered by legal initiatives from patients and companies. If you are interested in discussing the imperative for proactive regulatory frameworks that not only accommodate evolving industry needs but also foster global harmonization, ensuring a more coherent and responsive environment that also considers corporate social responsibility over corporate capture – this panel is for you.
Where is the Green Revolution? Cannabis as an Emerging Commodity in the Agri-industry, in Conventional Pharma, FMCG and Many Industries more…
Giadha A. DeCarcer
Paul Long
Susanne Caspar
Bernie Yeung
Benjamin Patock
The panel offers provides an in-depth exploration into the multifaceted and complex dynamics surrounding the emergence of cannabis as a commodity in the agri-industry, conventional pharmaceuticals, and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG). What role does cannabis play as a commodity, as it integrates into established sectors? Our panelists will examine practical challenges and promising opportunities and explore the evolving agricultural practices, the nuanced changes in pharmaceutical approaches, and the shifting dynamics of consumer goods influenced by this green revolution. It is an opportunity to engage in an insightful conversation about the various aspects of cannabis as it gradually establishes itself as a versatile commodity of the future, shaping industries and prompting a reevaluation of traditional norms.
Cannatech Catalysts: Digital Innovation, Programmed Automation and Virtual Trends for the Cannabis Industry and Beyond
Tom Pettit
Jürgen Bickel
Yogesh Jhamtani
Chris Sinacori
Nicholas Taraborelli
This panel takes our audience on a journey into the cutting-edge intersection of technology innovation and the cannabis industry. Explore the digital frontiers of technology innovation,
from programmed automation for cultivation or manufacturing to virtual trends in SaaS or Blockchain-Technology that are reshaping the digital and analogue landscape. Join our experts in exploring broader trends in technology and ecommerce, that are setting the pace for industries across the board, but may face specific restrictions due to the nature of our business. Gain insights into the transformative potential of digital innovation within the cannabis sector, and discover how these technological catalysts might influence and inspire innovation in other industries in the future. This panel provides a unique opportunity to explore the relationship between technology and cannabis, offering a glimpse into the evolving future where digital advancements not only redefine the cannabis experience itself, but also pave the way for groundbreaking approaches in diverse sectors beyond.
Originating in Europe vs. Entering from Overseas
Jill Reddish
Jamie Pearson
Lorne Gertner
Alex Pransky
Narkis Tessler
Explore with us the dynamic landscape of the cannabis industry, focusing on the emergence of global brands. This panel discusses the unique journey of brands originating from Europe vs. Abroad, understanding the factors that contribute to their rise and success on a global scale. Brands entering the European market from overseas will provide insights by, analyzing the challenges and opportunities they encounter. Our experts will share perspectives on market trends, regulatory considerations, and the cultural nuances influencing the global cannabis brand landscape. This panel unravels the complexities of this evolving industry and discovers the contrasting narratives of brands rooted in Europe versus those making their mark from abroad.
The Cannabis Blueprint: Developing Learning Systems and Accessible Standards for international Markets
Lisa Haag
Dr. Shawna Vreeke
Deepak Anand
John Slaughter
On this panel, our experts will discuss the importance of developing global learning systems and globally accessible standards for the creation of internationally harmonized markets in the realm of hemp, medicinal cannabis, and recreational use. Explore together with our experts the unique challenges of crafting standards for cannabis, an industry characterized by diverse markets and ever-evolving regulations. This panel addresses the scarcity of knowledge keepers and the availability of developed technologies on a local level, creating urgency to make this expertise accessible on a global scale. In a landscape where no global cannabis standard exists, this panel emphasizes on learning from experiences, acknowledging mistakes, and cultivating best practices that pave the way for global cannabis trade. This panel discusses the ever-present reality of “We don’t know what we don’t know,” as we collectively strive to blueprint a sustainable and standardized future for international cannabis markets.
Maximizing the potential of the cannabis plant
Juan Gutierrez
Dave Auger
Matthew Don-Carolis
José Manuel López
Cannabis breeding plays a vital role in the emerging legal industry, as it allows for the development of narrowly tailored products to meet the evolving needs of patients and consumers. As the legal market continues to advance, so does the potential for breeding and genetics to play an even greater role in shaping the industry. Expert scientists and cultivators will discuss the latest trends in cannabis genetics and provide insight into where the sector is headed in the future.
Which countries have the potential to create the most opportunities?
David Hyde
Rob Pero
Kohei Yamada
Zach George
Patty Holmes
The legal international cannabis industry is young by every measure, and many nations are still working to overhaul their cannabis policies and industry regulations. Currently, the legal industry landscape is dominated by a handful of nations, however, the landscape is guaranteed to evolve in the coming years as more markets enter the global arena. Oceania, Latin America, and certain European markets are well-positioned to harness their domestic resources to gain a meaningful share of the global market. Panelists will discuss which markets may hold the most potential in the short and long term, and what sectors of the industry people should focus on going forward.
Cutting-edge technology that is elevating global cultivation operations
Sonny Moerenhout
Mikhail Sagal
Franz Josef Sima
Rob Perry
Jeremy Youness
Harnessing the power of science to create cannabis concentrates
Michael Knodt
Nick Brousianos
George Stantchev
Steve Fuhr
Rui Soares
Jonah Barber
The cannabis extraction sector of the emerging cannabis industry is currently undergoing significant changes from nearly every angle, including regulations, technology, and shifting consumer and patient demands. As the international cannabis import/export market continues to develop, products derived from cannabis extracts will be particularly popular, including new products involving lesser-known cannabinoids. A panel of leading experts will discuss the current state of the international cannabis extraction sector and where the sector is headed in the coming years.
Scaling your company to reach larger markets
Alex Revich
Alexandre Gauthier
George Terry
John Leith
