On 17 October 2024, Resolution 1/2024 (the “Resolution”)of the Regulatory Agency of the Hemp and Medical Cannabis Industry (“ARRICAME”) was issued, which introduces significant changes to the regulation of non-psychoactive industrial hemp in Argentina. This regulation aims to boost the development of the hemp industry through a more streamlined and structured process for obtaining licenses and authorisations.
Main points of the Resolution:
- Repeal of Resolution 2/2023: The previous regulations governing cannabis and hemp-related activities are eliminated. However, provisional permits granted under that regulation will remain valid until they expire.
- New licensing procedure: A specific procedure is approved for the agricultural production and industrialisation of non-psychoactive hemp, focusing on seeds, grains and fibre. The regulation establishes that the regulation will be implemented in stages:
Stage 1: Agricultural production and industrialisation of non-psychoactive hemp seed, grain and fibre.
Stage 2: Agricultural production and industrialisation of non-psychoactive hemp flower and biomass.
Adaptation of previous applications: Those applications submitted under Resolution 2/2023 that have not been approved must be adapted to the new provisions of this resolution and future regulations issued by the agency. - Approval of fees: New fees for the issuance of licences and authorisations are approved, which are detailed in the annexes of the resolution.
- Authorities involved: Various governmental entities are informed of this new regulation, including the Ministry of Health, ANMAT, SENASA, AFIP, INASE, among others, in order to ensure proper inter-institutional coordination in the implementation of the regulation.
The resolution enters into force upon publication in the Official Gazette.
