Just over a year ago, entrepreneur Cassiano Gomes invested R$1 million to acquire a 17-hectare plot in the municipality of Conde, in the metropolitan region of João Pessoa, Paraíba. The site is expected to establish the Brazilian Cannabis Hope Support Association (Abrace), an entity founded by Gomes in 2014, as the owner of the largest area dedicated to medical cannabis cultivation in the country.
Cannabidiol oil, a natural compound also known as CBD, has been recognized for its efficacy in treating anxiety, chronic pain, epilepsy, and sleep disorders. Although it operates as a non-profit organization, Abrace has a structure resembling that of an industrial operation. The association operates across all stages of the value chain, from cultivation to commercialization and distribution of medications. It employs 100 people and serves around 60,000 patients.
"We are in the final stage of obtaining a special operating license. After that, we will pursue a good practices certification, which would allow us to participate in public tenders or sell directly to the government. That is not our main goal, but given our supply capacity, I see it as a way to reduce the cost of medications for our members," Gomes said.
Abrace's case illustrates a sector gaining momentum in Brazil. In January, the Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency (ANVISA) issued regulations on the cultivation and commercialization of medical cannabis in the country, drawing increased attention to the role played by third-sector organizations in the segment.
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