Cannabis Harvest: Agri-Business Insights for 2023 and Beyond

An in-depth view of the technological innovations and multiple transformations that have revolutionised due to the gradual immersion of the pharmaceutical industry into the cannabis sector.

FREMONT, CA: The pharmaceutical industry’s gradual entry into the cannabis industry has ignited a wave of technological innovation, transforming various aspects. To seize the potential benefits and minimise associated risks, there is a heightened focus on conducting research and development for cutting-edge technologies across the cannabis supply chain. There is a renewed focus on researching and developing innovative technologies tailored for upstream, midstream and downstream sectors to capitalise on opportunities and minimum risks.

Upstream Technologies

Upstream technologies primarily centre around the genetic engineering of cannabis strains, safeguarding seeds and plants, and optimising the cultivation process in the pharmaceutical cannabis industry. The remarkable surge in innovation and technology adoption is particularly evident within the cannabis industry, influencing critical aspects of its operations. However, this segment of agricultural technology is projected to reach a value of 46.4 billion USD by 2030.

Genetic modification has emerged as a leading area of focus within this industry, particularly for those dedicated to supplying pharmaceutical-grade cannabis. This technology has witnessed significant advancements in recent years, driven by the goal of optimising production efficiency and minimising labour costs. By harnessing genetic modification techniques, industry players strive to create cannabis strains that offer enhanced medicinal properties and higher yields, aligning with the increasing demand for pharmaceutical cannabis products.

Production of ‘F1 hybrid seeds’ is one of the notable developments in this sector. Although F1 hybrid seeds have long been a staple in conventional agriculture, from crossbreeding two distinct stairs to creating a new variety, they have only recently made their debut in the cannabis industry. This transition marks a significant advancement as it introduces the principles of traditional agriculture to the cultivation of cannabis, potentially leading to the development of novel cannabis strains with specific traits and characteristics desired by the pharmaceutical cannabis sector.

The influence of automation and robotics on reducing staffing costs is extending into the cannabis industry, with new systems being specifically designed to cater to its needs.

Midstream technologies

Midstream technologies in the cannabis industry are primarily concerned with processes related to extracting, purifying, separating, and preserving cannabis plants. In recent times, this segment of the industry has seen a surge in innovation and patent activity. Many companies are developing advanced technologies in these areas to gain a competitive edge in the pharmaceutical cannabis market. This heightened focus has resulted in significant growth and advancements within the extraction sector, addressing longstanding challenges and making the cannabis extraction and purification processes more efficient and cost-effective.

Downstream Technologies

Downstream technologies in the cannabis industry focus on the composition, formulation, and delivery of cannabis-based products customised to address specific medical conditions. These developments represent a significant stride in the field of pharmaceutical cannabis. Many of these innovative products and formulations are experiencing rigorous clinical trials, aiming to secure patents for their novel approaches. In this arena, there are substantial opportunities for pharmaceutical cannabis companies to launch more efficient delivery methods, create highly bio-available formulations, and ensure uniform dosing.

Hence, the intersection of the pharmaceutical industry with the cannabis industry has ushered in a wave of technological innovations and transformative changes. These developments have expanded the scope of medical research and treatment options and paved the way for a more subtle understanding of the potential therapeutic benefits of cannabis.