David Seymour Advocates for Growth in New Zealand’s Cannabis Exports

David Seymour, Associate Minister of Health, has expressed optimism about New Zealand’s potential to emerge as a significant exporter of medicinal cannabis. He suggests the country could replicate the success of its renowned wine industry, positioning itself as a “high-value powerhouse” in the global cannabis market. Recent data from the Ministry of Health indicates that New Zealand exported over 1 tonne of cannabis flower in 2024, a remarkable increase from 485.6 kilograms in 2023 and 184.3 kilograms in 2022.

A document obtained under the Official Information Act revealed the growing trend in cannabis exports. The Ministry defines medicinal cannabis products as either dried cannabis flower or pharmaceutical doses containing cannabis plant extracts. The primary markets for these exports have been identified as Australia, Portugal, and Uruguay.

Regulatory Changes Fuel Export Growth

Seymour highlighted that the increase in exports is largely due to recent regulatory changes that have streamlined the process for exporters. During a briefing, he mentioned that the Ministry’s efforts to eliminate barriers have had a significant impact on export growth. “We need to get money into the country,” Seymour stated. “Not everybody likes this stuff, but there’s a market for it.”

Currently, vendors must possess a medicinal cannabis licence and apply to Medsafe for a controlled drug export licence for each shipment. There is consideration for a broader export licence that would cover multiple consignments, potentially simplifying the process for businesses.

Medsafe has reported improvements in processing times, with an average wait of 10 days for export licences in the 2024/25 financial year. The agency is actively working to minimize delays by automating application fees and enhancing online submission processes. Seymour noted that recent changes have led to a 56% faster processing rate for export licences compared to 2023.

Future Prospects and Industry Support

Seymour has indicated that the government is exploring options to provide more permanent licences for exporters to reduce bureaucratic hurdles. He emphasized the economic benefits of bolstering this industry, stating that “in a million little ways, the Ministry for Regulation is cutting red tape.”

Medsafe has reaffirmed its commitment to balancing the regulatory requirements of the Misuse of Drugs Act while allowing businesses to operate effectively. The agency is engaging with industry stakeholders to identify issues and potential further improvements in the export process.

As the medicinal cannabis market continues to grow, Seymour believes that New Zealand could develop an export sector comparable to its wine industry. “For those who do want medicinal cannabis, we should let them,” he remarked, underscoring the market’s potential.

In summary, New Zealand’s cannabis export sector is on an upward trajectory, driven by regulatory reforms and increasing international demand. The Ministry of Health’s data reflects a strong and growing market, positioning New Zealand as a competitive player in the global medicinal cannabis arena.