The medical cannabis market in Brazil is booming. With the advancement of scientific studies and an increasing number of patients adopting cannabidiol (CBD)-based treatments, the country has established itself as one of the most promising markets in Latin America for companies in the segment seeking new opportunities.
In recent years, medicinal cannabis has transitioned from a treatment available to only a few to an increasingly mainstream alternative. Data from the do Kaya Mind yearbook indicates that in 2024 the number of patients undergoing treatment reached 672,000—a 56% increase compared to the previous year. This surge has boosted the market, which generated R$853 million in 2023 and could exceed R$1 billion in 2025.
Currently, over 2,180 cannabis-based medicinal products are available in Brazil, serving patients in 80% of the municipalities. Despite higher adoption rates, regulatory obstacles still challenge domestic production and distribution, meaning that nearly half of the products are imported.
Read also: The Brazilian market in 2025: from challenges to opportunities
The good news is that the regulatory landscape for medicinal cannabis is advancing significantly. In November 2024, the First Section of the Superior Court of Justice authorised the import of seeds and the cultivation of industrial hemp—a crucial measure to reduce costs for patients and open new possibilities for the local production of CBD-based medicines.
Anvisa, Brazil's National Health Surveillance Agency, is expected to finalise regulations on industrial hemp soon, further opening business opportunities in the country. It's imperative to highlight that this measure clearly distinguishes medicinal from recreational use, providing greater legal certainty for companies seeking to operate in this segment.
The benefits of medicinal cannabis are supported by an increasing body of scientific research. Current treatments primarily include:
● Epilepsy and neurological disorders (such as Parkinson's and multiple sclerosis)
● Fibromyalgia and chronic pain
● Psychiatric disorders (anxiety, post-traumatic stress, and depression)
● Degenerative diseases (including Alzheimer’s and cancer)
● Autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders
Brazil represents a strategic market for medical cannabis, especially for companies wishing to expand their operations. Factors that make the country attractive include:
Read also: Cross-border payments and business expansion in Brazil
The medical cannabis market in Brazil is booming, but running a successful operation requires both regulatory and financial know-how.
At Bazk, we monitor every legislative update and offer solutions that deliver security, compliance, and agility in financial operations for companies entering this sector.
Now is the ideal time to capitalise on this promising opportunity.
Interested in learning how to structure your operation in Brazil? Schedule a meeting with our team to see how we can help!
