Growth, Regulation and Opportunities in the Medicinal Cannabis Industry

The global growth of the Medicinal Cannabis industry

The medicinal cannabis industry is in a phase of strong expansion, driven by rising demand for alternative therapies, scientific advances and growing regulatory acceptance in several markets.

According to Data Bridge Market Research, the global market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 9% between 2022 and 2029, reflecting the growing interest of investors, pharmaceutical companies and healthcare entities.

Main growth drivers

• Increase in the prevalence of chronic diseases;
• Demand for alternative and complementary treatments;
• Greater concern for health and well-being;
• Advances in scientific and clinical research;
• Expansion of regulation in several countries.

Medical and scientific advances have accelerated investment in the sector, opening up new opportunities for research, production and development of cannabis-based medicines.

Scientific Development of Medicinal Cannabis

Scientific research continues to play a decisive role in the evolution of medicinal cannabis.

Israel remains one of the world’s leading references, with more than 50 specialized laboratories dedicated to the study of cannabinoids and their therapeutic applications.

Areas of specialization

Multidisciplinary teams carry out research in areas such as:

• Agrotechnology;
• Life Sciences;
• Medicine;
• Pharmaceutical Chemistry;
• Biotechnology.

The results obtained have made it possible to validate new therapeutic applications and strengthen the scientific credibility of medicinal cannabis within the medical community.

Portugal in the Medicinal Cannabis Market

Portugal has established itself as one of the most attractive destinations in Europe for the production of medicinal cannabis.

The country offers a set of competitive advantages that favor the setting up of producers and investors:

• Favorable climate;
• High sun exposure;
• Fertile soils;
• Skilled labor;
• Competitive operating costs.

At the same time, the regulatory framework and the international recognition of national infrastructure reinforce Portugal’s positioning as a future European hub for the industry.

Regulation and licensing

Infarmed has already granted more than a hundred licenses related to medicinal cannabis activities, showing the growth of the sector and the growing interest of operators.

Projections indicate that the national market could reach about 500 million euros by 2028.

Regulation and Compliance

Regulatory compliance is one of the fundamental pillars of the medicinal cannabis industry.

Production requires strict compliance with national and international standards that ensure quality, safety and traceability throughout the value chain.

Main requirements

• Infarmed standards;
• GACP certification;
• EU-GMP certification;
• Good agricultural and manufacturing practices;
• Document control and traceability.

Meeting these requirements translates into clear benefits:

• Greater product safety;
• Consistent pharmaceutical quality;
• Full traceability;
• The trust of regulators and international markets.

The Future of Medicinal Cannabis in Portugal

The growth outlook for the Portuguese market is very positive.

With privileged natural conditions, a solid regulatory framework and growing industrial capacity, Portugal has the potential to establish itself as one of the main European hubs for medicinal cannabis.

In a highly competitive sector, companies that invest in technology, traceability, compliance and operational efficiency will be better prepared to meet market demands and lead the next phase of the industry’s growth.

About INCENTEA

INCENTEA is a group of companies specializing in the implementation, integration and support of information systems for management and IT infrastructure, with a strong presence in 8 markets, notably Portugal and Spain.
With a team of trained, certified employees with technical and business skills, INCENTEA offers the business market customized solutions that meet customers’ specific needs, promoting significant, continuous improvement in their business processes.

Its commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction makes it a credible and decisive partner for companies that want to succeed in the face of present and future challenges.