In the last five years, medical cannabis in Brazil has gone from a taboo subject to an urgent healthcare reality. Millions of patients are seeking treatment, thousands of doctors are prescribing, and ANVISA is racing to establish frameworks. But this surge has also revealed weaknesses—limited product registrations, fragmented supply chains, and ongoing quality concerns.
Numbers That Matter
By 2024, Brazil’s medical cannabis market was worth R$ 853 million, serving roughly 672,000 patients across 80% of municipalities (International CBC). But access is fragmented:
- 315,000 patients import products via RDC 660.
- 208,000 patients rely on domestic products under RDC 327.
- 147,000 patients are supported by associations.
Yet only one product with THC and CBD is officially registered as a medicine, and just one clinical trial is ongoing (Demarest).
The Quality Gap
A recent evaluation of CBD products available in Brazil found fewer than 20% were considered “very satisfactory.” Many failed on Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), proper testing data, or clear safety information (PMC Study).
For patients, this isn’t just a technical detail—it means uncertainty about dosage, reliability, and trust. For pharma, it’s a red flag in a market that aspires to global credibility.
Conclusion
Brazil is not just building a market; it’s building trust. That means more rigorous testing, better product transparency, and consistent regulation. The opportunity is extraordinary, but it will reward those who can deliver real science and real solutions.
Hemspot offers pharma and associations a direct line to experts who understand these complexities and can help navigate compliance, research, and patient education.