The country legalized medical marijuana in 2017. Now patients have the right to grow their own plants at home and buy cannabis products directly from pharmacies — some people will even get their Ganja free of charge.
Argentina’s Ministry of Health will make definitive changes to the country’s medical marijuana law.
On Wednesday, the Health Minister met with key actors to close details on a draft regulation that will allow for home cultivation of cannabis and the production of oils and topicals by local pharmacies.
The measure will also guarantee access to medical cannabis to all patients free of charge, regardless of their health coverage, reported local news site Infobae.
Argentina had formally legalized medical cannabis in 2017, but the existing law failed to cover for patients’ needs. According to activists and critics, the law’s lack of clarity propelled a legal vacuum that forced patients to either rely on the illicit market or be left without treatment.
With a population of over 44 million, Argentina is one of Latin America’s most significant markets for cannabis. Neighbor Brazil announced a similar measure last year. Colombia leads the region today in terms of regulatory development and corporate presence.
What’s in the New Law?
With this new regulation, Argentina’s federal government will allow for personal cultivation of cannabis to all patients, researchers or users who register in the country’s national cannabis program (REPROCANN).
Growers can cultivate through personal means or by the use of a growth network. Personal information regarding growers will remain anonymous. Limits on the number of plants allowed per person have not yet been defined.
The law will also authorize the production of cannabis topicals, creams and oils in pharmacies that participate in the program. With this measure, people who are not a part of REPROCANN will be able to obtain cannabis medicine in pharmacies with a doctor’s prescription. (Read Full Article)