Cannabis News
While Thailand Flip-Flops on Legalizing Weed, Is Japan about to be the Next Asian Country to Work on Cannabis Reform?
Published
10 months agoon
By
admin
Is Japan The Next Asian Country To Work On Cannabis Reform?
In February 2021, Thailand made headlines around the globe for being the first country in Asia to legalize the purchase and consumption of marijuana leaves. Not long after, in June 2022, the whole plant was decriminalized and marijuana dispensaries soon began sprouting like weeds around the country. Currently, the new president may roll-back recreational cannabis laws across the country in the coming months.
Nowadays, Thailand is considered Asia’s weed capital. It’s a big deal, considering the region has long been known for having the harshest rules when it comes to drug use – including marijuana. Meanwhile, neighboring nations such as Singapore and Malaysia may show no mercy to anyone who gets caught in the country even with a small amount of weed. Japan was also among those known to have strict drug laws, but is that going to change soon?
After all, Thailand was primarily after the economic advantages of legalizing weed first and foremost. Regulating and legalizing the plant results in massive job generation, tax revenue, and an increase in foreign investment. Also, one can’t deny the medicinal benefits of legalizing marijuana. Thousands, potentially even millions of citizens can benefit tremendously from the incredible array of marijuana’s healing benefits.
More importantly, times have been changing and social attitudes as well as stigma are changing, too. Asian nations may have been considered more conservative before, but thanks to western countries showing the possibilities of living with legal weed – as well as the benefits – it’s helping Eastern nations increase awareness given the low risks of weed compared to tobacco and alcohol.
So, is Japan going to be next for Asian cannabis reform?
After all, marijuana has long been part of Japan’s culture, even though it isn’t as highlighted as in other ancient cultures. In fact, cannabis farming has been an important tradition; hemp has been used in textile making, religion, and even seasoning food.
It wasn’t until after World War II when the use of cannabis in Japan’s traditions became a hot topic, and soon it became wiped out due to the establishment of the 1948 Cannabis Control Act.
Current State of Cannabis in Japan
Marijuana use is already popular, at least among Japan’s youth, even if it’s illegal!
Based on a March 2024 report, a record-breaking 6,482 individuals were involved in crimes associated with marijuana in Japan just in the last year alone. They saw an increase of 1,1140 from the year prior, and a majority of them were just in their 20’s.
By the end of May 2024, Japan opened a public comment session that invites input for its first-ever marijuana reform bill. The bill provides valuable insight into how their cannabis industry will look like over the next few months. “The widespread use of smartphones has led to greater exposure to incorrect information about marijuana, potentially reducing the psychological barriers to its use,” said a representative of the National Police Agency.
One of the most interesting measures of the bill may be, though there is no guarantee just yet, that Japan could be the first country in the world that would ever approve the legal use of cannabidiol in food products. They seek to do this by eliminating the taxing Novel Foods procedure.
According to Yves Antoniazzi, Astrasana Holding AG’s Managing Director: “We have been waiting a long time for this. It is a huge milestone for the global cannabis industry. Japan is one of the first countries to approve CBD in food, paving the way for corporate companies to list CBD products in retail chains.” Astrasana, a Swiss Company, is among the few international businesses with a presence in Japan’s CBD market.
Japan’s Cannabis Control Act is clearly outdated; a bill to adjust the 75-year old bill was finally approved last November 2023. Afterward, the government has been tight-lipped about the details involved in these reforms. That said, all stakeholders are waiting with bated breath for details from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.
Popularity of CBD in Japan
While psychoactive tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is still strictly prohibited in Japan, and they have a zero-tolerance policy towards it, CBD is legal and widely available. And boy, is CBD popular!
According to Euromonitor International, the CBD market in Japan grew to an impressive $154 million last year. These figures are expected to grow even quicker especially once cannabis reform moves forward. According to the Japan Times, consumers turn to CBD as a healthy alternative to alcohol and tobacco, since it allows people to lay back and relax.
CBD is most popular in vape form, though with the bill’s revisions, the famous cannabinoid will likely be seen in many different food and beverages within the near future. “The liquid containing CBD (vapes) is the most common product type, but we expect large businesses to enter the market by launching food, beverages and dietary supplements,” said Aya Suzuki, a Euromonitor International senior analyst, to the Japan Times.
Suzuki adds that there must be significant efforts to get rid of the black market in order for the legal CBD market to thrive in Japan. Businesses must also be compliant with any regulations set in place. “It is normal for businesses to source CBD ingredients and CBD-containing products from abroad,” Suzuki says. “Therefore, it is important for them to find reliable (overseas) suppliers. Many small and individual businesses who import ingredients and products have increasingly seen their packages disposed of (by customs regulators) through the detection of THC in them or the suspicion that they contain THC.”
Conclusion
Should the bill progress well over the next few months, Japan may just be next to enjoy the benefits of regulating and legalizing marijuana. Of course, just as Thailand proved, regulating cannabis will not be without its hurdles and surely Japan will have its own. But Japan may well on its way to making milestones as the second country in Asia to legalize cannabis – even if it starts with CBD.
MORE ON JAPANESE CANNABIS LAWS, READ ON…
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Stop Using Bat Poop to Fertilize Your Weed Plants Immediately, Here is Why…
Published
13 hours agoon
April 1, 2025By
admin
Don’t Fertilize Your Weed with Bat Poop
Fertilization is a critical step for growing healthy marijuana plants.
They help provide essential nutrients for marijuana in various stages of growth, while promoting plant growth. There are dozens of different fertilizers to choose from in the market; growers can choose based on budget, nutrients needed, location, season, and much more. But not all fertilizers are made equally – of course, some are of better quality than others.
That said, there are some rather unusual fertilizers that can be used on plants. These may include, but are not limited to: coffee, milk, grass clippings, banana peels, fish tank water, potato water, and even urine! Yes, it does sound strange, but to gardening enthusiasts, there is nutritional value to be found in each of these things, which can make them suitable fertilizers depending on the circumstances.
For example, grass clippings make excellent mulch and can provide potassium, nitrogen, and phosphorus. Urine is a potent source of nitrogen as well as phosphorus. Banana peels are rich in calcium, which is excellent for promoting root growth while helping supply oxygen to the soil.
But what about bat poop? Also known as guano, bat poop has been said to work as a plant fertilizer because it’s rich in nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, and other nutrients. Unfortunately, using bat poop as a plant fertilizer can also be dangerous. So if you don’t really know what you are doing, bat poop as a fertilizer can be extremely risky.
Bat Poop Fertilizer Kills 2 NY Men
On December 2024, news of two men hailing from Rochester, New York, dying went viral.
The cause of death was dangerous fungus, in the bat poop that they were using to fertilize their marijuana plants. Both men grew their own marijuana plants for medical consumption, but unfortunately developed histoplasmosis after breathing toxic fungal spores from the guano.
One of the men was aged 59 years old; he bought bat poop online to use as fertilizer for his plants. Meanwhile, the other was a 64-year-old male who found guano in his attic, then decided to use it to fertilize his cannabis plants. They both developed similar symptoms, including chronic coughs, fever, severe weight loss, and respiratory failure. The case was also discussed in the Open Forum Infectious Diseases medical journal.
Is there a safe way to use bat poop as fertilizer? If you ask me, I truly can’t understand why one would use guano as fertilizer when there are so many other proven safe alternatives out there that are simply not as risky. According to the University of Washington, one must always wear a dust mask each time you open a bag containing soil amendments. That’s because a mask will greatly decrease the chances of breathing in fungal spores, which could be potentially dangerous. They also go on to explain that yes, guano is indeed used as fertilizer for its valuable nitrogen content but it still isn’t without its own risks, particularly of developing Histoplasma – the same condition that killed the two men.
Make Your Own Safe Fertilizers At Home
There are many other safe, affordable – and even free – fertilizers you can feed your marijuana plants with. It doesn’t have to cost a fortune nor does it have to be risky to your health.
Check out these easy, low-cost, DIY fertilizers for weed:
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Coffee grounds are abundant in nitrogen, which makes it perfect for the vegetative stage of marijuana plants. They are also a fantastic source of organic materials and green waste, which contain other vital nutrients. When the coffee grounds decompose, they create soil aggregates that improve soil aeration and its water retention capabilities.
Mix around 2 grams of coffee ground for every liter of soil. Measuring its pH levels is also helpful, since you want it to be between 6 to 6.5
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Crushed eggshells are a great way to ensure no eggshells go to waste. It’s rich in calcium plus other minerals that are effective in improving overall plant structure, health, and growth. In fact, so many gardeners and farmers commonly use crushed eggshells to help boost plant growth – and it will work just as well for marijuana plants.
They’re really easy to use, too! Just mix eggshells into the soil, or steep them into water then pour into the soil for a calcium-packed feed.
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Banana tea or water is rich in potassium and magnesium, making it perfect as a feed during the marijuana plant’s flowering stage. You can use banana peels differently: with 3 to 5 banana peels, soak it in water for 2 days. Then you can use the water on your plants, and even leave the banana peels as compost for your garden.
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Wood ash from your fireplace or other sources is a great source of phosphorus and potassium. Simply sprinkle some wood ash over marijuana during the final flower phase. Just use 1 or 2 grams of ash for every liter of substrate. Be careful not to use too much wood ash, or it can make the soil too alkaline.
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Animal manure, such as those from cows, rabbits, or horses, make excellent organic fertilizers. Just be sure that they’re composed properly so that you avoid introducing weed seeds, or pathogens.
These low-cost fertilizers are also natural and effective. There’s no reason for you to turn to bat poop as fertilizer, even if you’re in a bind.
Conclusion
Guano or bat poop is a poor choice of fertilizer if you don’t know what you are doing. It’s risky and potentially dangerous – just not worth it. Instead, fertilize your marijuana plants with these options mentioned.
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Cannabis News
Getting THC Edibles in Your Edible Arrangement?
Published
3 days agoon
March 30, 2025By
admin
Edible Arrangements Leans into Intoxicating Hemp Products: A Strategic Expansion
Edible Arrangements, a brand renowned for its vibrant fruit bouquets and sweet treats, is embarking on a bold new venture into the hemp and THC-infused edibles market. Through its parent company, Edible Brands, the company has launched Edibles.com, an e-commerce platform offering a variety of hemp-based products such as THC-infused beverages, gummies, and snacks. This strategic move taps into the burgeoning demand for cannabis-related wellness products and reflects a deliberate expansion beyond traditional offerings.
Introduction to Edible Arrangements and Its New Venture
Edible Arrangements was founded in 1999 by Tariq Farid, who envisioned a unique way to gift fresh fruit arrangements that were both visually appealing and delicious. Over the years, the company has grown to become a global brand with hundreds of locations across the United States and internationally. However, the company’s latest initiative marks a significant departure from its traditional fruit-based offerings, signaling a broader strategic shift towards becoming a comprehensive food, health, and wellness company.
The New Venture: Edibles.com
Edibles.com debuted on March 20, 2025, starting operations in Texas with ambitious plans to expand rapidly across Southeastern states like Florida and Georgia. The platform is designed to cater to consumers aged 21 and older, providing low-dose THC products that comply with the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized hemp containing less than 0.3% THC by dry weight. Select products will also be available for nationwide shipping where legally permitted, leveraging the company’s existing logistics infrastructure.
Product Lineup
The initial product lineup includes a range of THC-infused beverages, gummies, and snacks. These products are designed to appeal to both seasoned cannabis users and newcomers looking for low-dose, accessible options. The company emphasizes the importance of quality and safety, ensuring that all products undergo rigorous testing to meet high standards of purity and potency.
Strategic Alignment and Market Potential
The move into the infused edibles market aligns with Edible Brands’ vision of becoming a broader food, health, and wellness company. CEO Somia Farid Silber highlighted that the infused edibles market is a fast-growing sector with high consumer demand for safe and reliable products. The company is leveraging its extensive franchise network to deliver these items while planning to open brick-and-mortar stores under the Incredible Edibles brand.
Market Trends and Consumer Demand
The cannabis industry, particularly the segment focused on hemp and THC-infused products, has seen exponential growth in recent years. This growth is driven by increasing consumer interest in wellness and recreational products, as well as evolving legal landscapes that have opened up new markets. Edible Arrangements is positioning itself to capitalize on this trend by offering products that cater to both health-conscious consumers and those seeking unique gifting options.
Challenges and Opportunities
While this expansion offers significant growth potential, it also comes with challenges such as navigating varying state regulations and ensuring product safety and quality. The company aims to address these issues through robust infrastructure and consumer advocacy. Thomas Winstanley, a cannabis industry veteran leading Edibles.com, emphasized the company’s unique position to drive innovation in this emerging market.
Regulatory Challenges
One of the primary challenges facing Edible Arrangements is the complex regulatory environment surrounding cannabis products. Laws regarding the sale and distribution of THC-infused products vary significantly from state to state, requiring the company to adapt its operations to comply with local regulations. This includes ensuring that products meet specific THC content limits and are marketed responsibly.
Quality Control and Safety
Another critical challenge is maintaining high standards of quality and safety across all products. Edible Arrangements is investing heavily in testing and quality assurance processes to ensure that all products meet stringent safety standards. This includes partnering with reputable suppliers and implementing rigorous testing protocols to verify the potency and purity of all THC-infused items.
Consumer Education and Advocacy
As part of its strategy, Edible Arrangements is also focusing on consumer education and advocacy. The company recognizes that many consumers are new to cannabis products and may have questions about usage, dosage, and safety. To address this, Edibles.com will provide comprehensive product information, dosage guidelines, and resources for consumers to learn more about the benefits and risks associated with THC-infused products.
Marketing Strategy
Edible Arrangements plans to leverage its existing brand recognition and customer loyalty to promote its new line of hemp-based products. The company will utilize social media, email marketing, and targeted advertising to reach its target audience. Additionally, partnerships with influencers and cannabis industry experts will help build credibility and drive awareness about the brand’s entry into this new market.
Future Expansion Plans
In the coming months, Edible Arrangements plans to expand its operations beyond Texas, targeting key markets in the Southeast. The company is also exploring opportunities to open physical stores under the Incredible Edibles brand, which will offer a curated selection of THC-infused products alongside traditional Edible Arrangements items.
Incredible Edibles Stores
The Incredible Edibles stores will serve as a unique retail experience, combining the company’s traditional fruit arrangements with its new line of hemp-based products. This format will allow customers to explore and purchase THC-infused items in a welcoming and educational environment. The stores will also host workshops and events focused on cannabis education and wellness, further enhancing the brand’s position as a leader in this emerging market.
Conclusion
Edible Arrangements’ foray into the hemp and THC-infused edibles market marks a significant strategic shift for the company. By leveraging its brand recognition and logistical capabilities, Edible Arrangements is poised to become a major player in this rapidly growing sector. While challenges exist, the company’s commitment to quality, safety, and consumer education positions it well for success in this new venture.
As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, Edible Arrangements’ entry into this market underscores the broader trend of mainstream brands embracing cannabis-related products. This move not only expands the company’s offerings but also reflects a broader cultural shift towards greater acceptance and normalization of cannabis use.
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Cannabis News
Is Cannabis Legal in California Right Now?
Published
4 days agoon
March 29, 2025By
admin
California Supreme Court Upholds Cannabis Legalization
In a landmark decision, the California Supreme Court recently reaffirmed the legality of cannabis in the state by de-publishing a prior appellate ruling. This move effectively prevents the lower court’s opinion from being used as legal precedent in future cases, ensuring that California’s cannabis laws remain intact. The decision is a significant victory for the state’s legal cannabis industry and reinforces California’s position as a leader in cannabis legalization.
Background of the Case
The case, JCCrandall v. County of Santa Barbara, originated from a lawsuit filed by Lompoc property owner Janna Caron Crandall. She challenged the County of Santa Barbara’s decision to allow cannabis transportation on an easement road crossing her property. Crandall argued that the easement’s terms prohibited federally illegal activities, thus making the county’s permit approval unlawful. This challenge was rooted in the fact that cannabis remains illegal under federal law, despite being legalized in California.
The Legal Framework
California legalized recreational cannabis in 2016 with the passage of Proposition 64, also known as the Adult Use of Marijuana Act (AUMA). This law allowed adults 21 years and older to possess and use cannabis for recreational purposes. However, the federal government still classifies cannabis as a Schedule I controlled substance, making it illegal under federal law. This dichotomy between state and federal laws has created legal complexities and challenges for cannabis businesses operating in California.
The Appellate Court Ruling
In January 2025, the Court of Appeal sided with Crandall, suggesting that California’s cannabis regulations were unlawful due to cannabis being federally illegal. This ruling was seen as a potential threat to the state’s cannabis industry, as it implied that federal law could preempt state laws allowing cannabis use and sale. The appellate court’s decision was based on the argument that the easement agreement prohibited activities that were illegal under federal law, and since cannabis is federally illegal, allowing its transportation on the easement would violate the terms of the agreement.
Implications of the Appellate Ruling
If the appellate court’s decision had stood, it could have had far-reaching implications for California’s cannabis industry. It would have potentially opened the door for similar challenges to cannabis operations across the state, undermining the legal framework that has been established since Proposition 64. This could have led to increased legal uncertainty and risk for cannabis businesses, potentially stifling growth and investment in the sector.
The Supreme Court Decision
The California Supreme Court’s decision to de-publish the appellate court’s ruling effectively nullifies its impact as a legal precedent. This means that the opinion cannot be cited or relied upon in future cases, ensuring that California’s cannabis laws remain secure. The Supreme Court’s action was in response to a request from the Department of Cannabis Control and other stakeholders who sought to protect the state’s cannabis regulations.
Statement from the Department of Cannabis Control
“We are pleased that the Court agreed to address that Court of Appeal decision at the Department of Cannabis Control’s request, supporting California law and its legal cannabis industry,” said DCC Director Nicole Elliott. This statement reflects the relief and support within the industry and regulatory bodies for the Supreme Court’s decision.
Impact of the Supreme Court Decision
The Supreme Court’s decision has several key implications for California’s cannabis industry and the broader legal landscape:
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Legal Certainty: By preventing the appellate court’s opinion from being used as precedent, the Supreme Court has provided legal certainty for cannabis businesses. This clarity is crucial for investors, operators, and consumers alike, as it ensures that the industry can continue to operate without the threat of federal preemption being used to undermine state laws.
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Industry Growth: The decision supports the continued growth and development of California’s cannabis industry. With legal certainty, businesses are more likely to invest in expansion, innovation, and compliance, which can lead to increased economic benefits for the state.
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Regulatory Framework: The ruling reinforces the authority of state regulatory bodies, such as the Department of Cannabis Control, to oversee and enforce cannabis laws. This ensures that the industry operates within a well-defined legal framework, which is essential for maintaining public safety and trust.
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Consumer Access: For consumers, the decision means that access to legal cannabis will remain unchanged. This is important for both recreational users and patients who rely on cannabis for medical purposes.
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Federal-State Relations: While the decision does not change federal law, it underscores the ongoing tension between state and federal cannabis policies. It highlights the need for continued advocacy for federal reform to align with the growing number of states that have legalized cannabis.
Historical Context of Cannabis Legalization in California
California has been at the forefront of cannabis legalization efforts in the United States. The state’s journey towards legalizing cannabis began with the passage of Proposition 215 in 1996, which allowed for the medical use of cannabis. This was followed by Proposition 64 in 2016, which legalized recreational cannabis.
Proposition 215: Compassionate Use Act
Proposition 215, also known as the Compassionate Use Act, was a groundbreaking piece of legislation that allowed patients with certain medical conditions to use cannabis with a doctor’s recommendation. This law marked the beginning of a shift in public perception and legal treatment of cannabis, paving the way for broader legalization efforts.
Proposition 64: Adult Use of Marijuana Act (AUMA)
Proposition 64 expanded on Proposition 215 by legalizing the recreational use of cannabis for adults. It established a regulatory framework for the cultivation, distribution, and sale of cannabis, creating a multibillion-dollar industry in California. The law also included provisions for taxation, licensing, and environmental protection.
Challenges and Opportunities in the Cannabis Industry
Despite the legal victories, the cannabis industry in California faces several challenges:
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Regulatory Compliance: Businesses must navigate complex state and local regulations, which can be costly and time-consuming. Compliance with these regulations is essential to avoid legal issues and maintain operational licenses.
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Market Competition: The California cannabis market is highly competitive, with many licensed operators competing for market share. This competition can drive innovation but also poses challenges for smaller businesses trying to establish themselves.
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Federal Banking Restrictions: Due to federal illegality, cannabis businesses often face difficulties accessing traditional banking services. This forces many companies to operate largely in cash, which can increase security risks and complicate financial management.
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Environmental Concerns: Cannabis cultivation can have environmental impacts, such as water usage and energy consumption. The industry Is working to address these concerns through sustainable practices and regulatory compliance.
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Social Equity Programs: California has implemented social equity programs aimed at supporting individuals and communities disproportionately affected by the war on drugs. These programs provide resources and opportunities for entry into the cannabis industry.
Future of Cannabis Legalization
The California Supreme Court’s decision is part of a broader national conversation about cannabis legalization. As more states legalize cannabis, there is growing pressure for federal reform. Several bills have been introduced in Congress to address issues such as banking access and federal preemption, but comprehensive reform remains elusive.
Federal Reform Efforts
Efforts to reform federal cannabis laws include bills like the MORE Act, which would decriminalize cannabis at the federal level, and the SAFE Banking Act, which aims to provide banking access to cannabis businesses. While these bills have seen progress, they face significant hurdles in becoming law.
International Perspectives
Internationally, countries like Canada and Uruguay have fully legalized cannabis, providing models for how federal legalization could work. These countries have established national regulatory frameworks that address issues like taxation, public health, and international trade.
Conclusion
The California Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the legality of cannabis in the state is a significant victory for the industry and its stakeholders. It ensures that California can continue to lead in cannabis legalization and regulation, providing a model for other states and countries. As the legal landscape evolves, it is crucial for ongoing advocacy and reform efforts to address the remaining challenges and opportunities in the cannabis sector.
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