Brazil is hosting its first Cannabis Expo this weekend amid ongoing national debates about legalizing the drug.
Organizers expect about 20,000 people at the three-day São Paulo event. It aims to show the plant’s many uses, from fun to health.
Event coordinator Larissa Uchida said, “We want to show the plant’s range. It’s not just for medicine.
It’s good for food, building, clothes, and even fuel.” The first Expo began in Uruguay in 2013. That year, Uruguay fully allowed the plant’s sale and production.
The Expo comes as Brazil’s Supreme Court reviews drug laws. Five of 11 judges favor decriminalizing small amounts of the plant.
But Rodrigo Pacheco, Senate President, plans to propose a different law. His law would make holding any amount of the plant a crime.
São Paulo legislator Caio Franca stated, “Now is a good time to talk about the plant as medicine and for fun.
We are considering this in law and court.” Medical use of the plant remains a hot topic. Patients often have to go to court to get treatments like cannabidiol for epilepsy.
An Expo visitor, Gabriel Vieira said, “Brazil should join countries that have legalized the plant, either fully or partly.
people use it for health or fun.” The market for the plant was worth $43.7 billion last year. Experts predict it will grow tenfold by 2030.
Visitor Luciano Narita noted, “I came for new items like the chocolate I bought. I like using the plant for fun.”
Background
Cannabis has a long history. Many ancient cultures used it for various purposes like medicine and rope.
But in the modern era, many countries banned it. The reasons often involve health and social worries.
Brazil has been strict on drug laws for years. 2006 the country passed a law that made drug possession a crime.
This led to prison for many users, not just sellers. Now, the debate is shifting towards decriminalization and medical use.
Uruguay changed its approach in 2013. It became the first country to legalize the plant fully.