Medical Cannabis Market Size, Share, Opportunities, And Trends By Product Type (Indica, Satiiva, Hybrid), By Application (Epilepsy, Migraine, Cancer Pain, Alzheimer’s Disease, Others), By End-user (Pharma Industry, Research Institutes), And By Geography - Forecasts From 2023 To 2028

The medical cannabis market is projected to show steady growth during the forecast period.

The therapeutic potential of the cannabis plant for various medical conditions is attributed to the diverse strains cultivated globally, each possessing a unique combination of terpenes and cannabinoids that interact with the body's endocannabinoid system. Commonly referred to as medical marijuana or medical cannabis, derivatives from the Cannabis sativa plant are harnessed to alleviate symptoms associated with specific medical conditions. Key active compounds, including delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), contribute to the plant's medicinal properties. While THC induces psychoactive effects, medical benefits encompass managing chronic pain, mitigating chemotherapy-induced nausea, seizure control with CBD, treating glaucoma, addressing muscle spasticity, stimulating appetite, and potentially alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression.

The diverse therapeutic applications of medical marijuana underscore the ongoing research and exploration of its benefits across a spectrum of medical conditions. Various delivery methods offer distinct advantages and risks. Oils and edibles offer long-lasting effects but have a slower onset. Topicals provide localized pain relief with minimal systemic effects. Moreover, the benefits extend to its potential to alleviate symptoms and enhance the quality of life for patients dealing with diverse medical conditions. As a natural alternative to conventional medications, medical cannabis presents itself with fewer side effects in some cases, contributing to its appeal in therapeutic use. The growing body of research supports the notion of its therapeutic potential, further fueling interest and exploration in the realm of medical marijuana.

Market Drivers

• Growing legalization

The global trend of increasing legalization of medical cannabis is gaining significant momentum, as more countries and states are embracing this transformative shift. This broader acceptance is not only reshaping societal attitudes but also expanding the market for medical cannabis products and services.

In 2021, Thailand, the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) has taken a noteworthy step by issuing a notification under the Food Act, specifically addressing food products containing cannabis or hemp parts. The publication in the country's Government Gazette outlines the classification of such products and establishes requirements related to food quality, standards, and labeling.

Moreover, in 2023, the Secure and Fair Enforcement Regulation (SAFER) Banking Act is poised to play a crucial role in further propelling the medical cannabis market. This legislation is designed to ensure that all businesses, including state-sanctioned cannabis enterprises, have access to essential financial services like deposit accounts and insurance. By creating practical standards for banks and credit unions, the SAFER Banking Act aims to foster customer relationships and expand access to deposit accounts, particularly for underbanked groups. This legislative development is anticipated to be a major driver for market growth, spurring increased product development and research within the medical cannabis industry.

Growing awareness of medical cannabis products

The global awareness of medical cannabis products is on the rise, and recent developments in the cannabis industry further highlight this trend. In November 2023, Canopy Growth Corporation, a leading cannabis company, announced the introduction of four new flower product offerings from renowned brands 7ACRES and Tweed, just in time for the holiday season. These high-quality flower products, including a holiday taster pack from 7ACRES and new strains from Tweed, are positioned as ideal additions to festive adult celebrations.

Moreover, in January 2023, Atlas Global Brands took a significant step by signing a Letter of Intent (LOI) with a licensed cannabis producer. This strategic move involves acquiring all outstanding securities of a privately owned licensed cannabis producer based in Ontario. The licensed producer's state-of-the-art facilities and cultivation processes, GACP, and CUMCS certified, are expected to contribute an additional 3,500 kilograms in annual production capacity. This expansion aligns with the growing global awareness and demand for medical cannabis products, positioning the cannabis industry as a driving force in meeting the evolving needs of consumers on a global scale.

Market Challenges

• Regulation and Legalisation

The regulation and legalization of cannabis products pose a multifaceted challenge, characterized by a range of perspectives and priorities among stakeholders. Although legalization holds substantial potential benefits such as enhanced tax revenue, job opportunities, and positive impacts on public health, there are also pertinent concerns that demand careful consideration. A notable framework in this discussion is the United Nations Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, a pact signed by 187 countries, which classifies cannabis as a controlled substance. This classification places limitations on both the production and utilization of cannabis, adding a layer of complexity to the ongoing global discourse surrounding its regulation and legalization

The medical cannabis market by type is segmented into sativa, indica, and hybrid

In categorizing the medical cannabis market by type, it is segmented into sativa, indica, and hybrid varieties. Indica plants are characterized by their shorter stature and broad leaves, often leading to a strain that induces more noticeable bodily sensations. On the other hand, Sativa plants tend to be taller with long, slender leaves, and their strains are renowned for their uplifting and euphoric effects, making them particularly recommended for daytime use. A hybrid, as the name suggests, is a cannabis plant resulting from the crossbreeding of both indica and sativa plants. As the medical cannabis market continues to expand, the segmentation into sativa, indica, and hybrid types allows for the diverse therapeutic options available to patients based on their specific needs and preferences.

North America is anticipated to hold a significant share of the medical cannabis market.

The medical cannabis market is to see growth, with North America expected to claim a notable share. As of April 24, 2023, a total of 38 states, three territories, and the District of Columbia have embraced the medical use of cannabis products. In Canada, the legality of cannabis for medical purposes dates back to 1999. The landscape evolved further in 2018 with the legalization of cannabis for nonmedical purposes. The increasing acceptance and legalization of medical cannabis in both the United States and Canada represent a positive trend. This development holds significant benefits for patients, businesses, and the overall economy. The expanding recognition of the medicinal properties of cannabis is contributing to a transformative shift in the regulatory environment, paving the way for a more comprehensive and accessible approach to cannabis-based medical treatments in North America.

Market Developments

• September 2023-  Cronos has introduced a new line of THCV products under the Spinach FEELZ™ brand, unveiling the Full Tilt series. Dedicated to providing consumers with a diverse range of rare cannabinoids, Spinach FEELZ™ is focused on delivering unique experiences across various product formats. Each product is thoughtfully crafted, incorporating proprietary blends of both rare and familiar cannabinoids like THC and CBD. Within the Spinach FEELZ™ Full Tilt product range, two standout offerings include the Spinach FEELZ™ Full Tilt Blue Razz Additionally, the Spinach FEELZ™ Full Tilt Blue Raspberry Lemonade Gummies offer a flavorful alternative. Each pack contains 5 pieces, with each gummy delivering 10mg of THC and 20mg of THCV.
• October 2020- Cronos Group has initiated the introduction of its premier medical brand, PEACE NATURALS™, in Israel. Operating under Cronos Israel, the company's activities encompass the cultivation and production of PEACE NATURALS™ branded products at its facilities situated in Kibbutz Gan Shmuel, Israel. Cronos Group recognizes Israel's commendable efforts in establishing a robust and successful cannabis market. The company is actively contributing to this landscape by focusing on enhancing and streamlining the patient access process for medical cannabis. Notably, Israel boasts one of the world's highest rates of cannabis usage, and the medical patient count in the country is anticipated to witness significant growth shortly. Cronos Group's entry into the Israeli market aligns with the country's evolving cannabis industry, emphasizing its commitment to providing top-tier medical solutions to meet the rising demand.
• November 2023- Martha Stewart CBD introduced a timely addition to its product lineup with the debut of need-based CBD gummies, strategically addressing sleep, stress, and discomfort concerns. This new line further expands Martha Stewart CBD's dynamic wellness offerings. Designed to cater to consumer demands for targeted solutions, the products aim to alleviate common needs—specifically, sleep issues, stress management, and the discomfort associated with aches and soreness.

Company Products

• Pure CBD Droppers-  Pure CBD Droppers, are crafted droppers containing 300mg of CBD at a concentration of 10mg CBD/ml. With a variety of delightful flavors to choose from, including Mint Chocolate, Mint, Lemon, Vanilla, and Strawberry, our Isolate formula ensures a pure CBD experience. In each 1oz bottle, you'll find a total of 300mg CBD, offering a convenient and precisely measured solution. In the taste of Mint, the zing of Lemon, the richness of Vanilla, the sweetness of Strawberry, or the indulgence of Mint Chocolate, 300mg CBD droppers have you covered.
• Aurora CBD Drops- It is a hybrid cannabis oil crafted with precision. With THC levels ranging from 0 to 3 mg/ml (0 - 3.1 mg/g) and a robust CBD content of 23.3 to 31.5 mg/ml (23.3 - 31.5 mg/g), these drops provide a seamless and user-friendly method to incorporate CBD into daily routine. It is easy to consume with a velvety smooth, neutral-flavored oil suspended in an MCT carrier oil. This CBD oil is meticulously derived from Aurora's popular CBD strains, ensuring a high-quality and consistent product.

Market Segmentation

• By Product Type
  • Indica
  • Satiiva
  • Hybrid
• By Application
  • Epilepsy
  • Migraine
  • Cancer Pain
  • Alzheimer’s Disease
  • Others
• By End-user
  • Pharma industry
  • Research institutes
• By Geography
  • North America
    • USA
    • Canada
    • Mexico
  • South America
    • Brazil
    • Argentina
    • Others
  • Europe
    • UK
    • Germany
    • France
    • Spain
    • Others
  • Middle East and Africa
    • Israel
    • Others
  • Asia Pacific
    • Japan
    • China
    • India
    • South Korea
    • Thailand
    • Others