Although South Africa accounts for a tiny percentage of global cannabis trade, it is an important part of the bigger picture, with cannabis markets in Europe, the UK, Israel and Australia. Cannabiz Africa reports on international developments affecting the African cannabis and hemp sector as well as consumer market trends of interest to South African operators.
From CBD-laced spa kits to THC gummies shared over candlelit dinners, cannabis is redefining modern love rituals. Cannabis retailers have been quick to pick up on the power of love marketing and are hoping 2026 will reflect last year’s Valentines Day sales that saw a 20% spike in legal jurisdictions.
The Dutch medical cannabis industry is struggling to match legality wth accessibility. A recent survey revealed the Netherlands has an estimated 500 000 people seeking to use cannabis for medical purposes but only 7 000 or so have actually managed to get prescriptions.
The Thailand cannabis industry, estimated to be worth $1 billion, is poised to shrink or disappear completely. A public backlash against legalization has resulted in all three parties going to the polls on 8 February 2026 promising to impose further restrictions if elected.
Reggae icon Bob Marley lives on in branded merchandise that earned his estate US$13 million last year. This week marks the birthday of the man who’s message of peace and love is now a money-making machine.
The stigma of cannabis still runs deeply through the United Kingdom as evidenced in the ‘shock horror’ tabloid headlines that accompanied the release of long-awaited policing guidelines regarding cannabis. Sensationalism still beats evidence-based reporting on cannabis in the mainstream media.
European cannabis prices are coming under pressure as supply increases. Joao Duartte, Business Developer at Decibel Engineered Systems in Almada, Portugal, says the new reaiity in 2026 is producing high THC flower at one Euro/gram; pricing that South African cannabis producers need to set their sights on.
As the South African cannabis consumer market evolves, trends are reflecting those of more mature markets. What’s happening in the US is probably true for SA as well – consumers want more than just cannabis flower and this bodes well for the pre-rolls, edibles, beverages and vape markets in 2026.
Over 41% of women reportedly have difficulty attaining orgasms and cannabis should be recognized as a treatment in matters of sexual health. This view is gaining ground in the US where medical cannabis is being used to treat Female Orgasmic Disorder in Illinois and Connecticut, with Oregon and New Mexico likely to follow suit .
The pharmacy industry occupies 61% of the international medical cannabis market is investing heavily in the development of new drugs, particularly for chronic pain, epilepsy and cancer-related conditions. That’s according to the World Cannabis Report 2026.
The global cannabis trade underwent significant changes in 2025, especially in the European market, where price compression and potentially strict regulatory changes are adding to an already complex market. This means exporters to Europe can expect lower cannabis prices in 2026.
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