This variety of cannabis contains “low-THC” levels, capped at 0.2%, and is primarily grown for legal purposes like construction and textiles. And for those wishing to get in on the action? You’ll need a license.
The government, in collaboration with experienced growers, has agreed on several reforms to simplify the licensing process and give the hemp industry a much-needed boost.
The key change? Licence holders will soon be allowed to grow hemp anywhere on their licensed farms—no more specifying the exact field. This change should ease some of the burdens on farmers, who currently face the unnecessary hassle of detailing the precise location where they plan to plant their hemp. The new rule is set to take effect by the 2025 growing season.
But that’s not all. For the 2026 growing season, two additional reforms are in the works. First, the maximum licence period will extend from three to six years, as long as growers meet the terms. Second, applicants will have the option to delay the start of their licence by up to one year, which should make planning their business and crops a whole lot easier.
Minister for Crime and Policing, Dame Diana Johnson, commented:
“These reforms will bring an important boost to this industry and cut down the unnecessary burdens that have been placed on businesses. This government will always listen and engage with industry experts, and we want to make it easier for licence holders to capitalise on the economic potential of legally growing hemp.”
Meanwhile, Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs, Daniel Zeichner, added:
“These improvements to the licensing regime for industrial hemp are a positive step for farmers. Recognising that industrial hemp is a field-grown agricultural crop, these reforms will simplify the licence application process and provide greater flexibility within the crop rotation, enabling farmers to fully realise the economic and environmental benefits of the crop.”
However, while hemp cultivation is on the rise, the government maintains that cannabis, as a whole, is still a harmful substance. Possession of cannabis remains illegal and can lead to a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison, a fine, or both. Supplying cannabis is a far more serious criminal offence, with penalties up to 14 years in prison, an unlimited fine, or both. So, while hemp is getting a green light, the rest of the cannabis plant still has some red flags.
All in all, it looks like farmers and the hemp industry will have more room to grow—just don’t forget, it’s all about staying within the legal boundaries.
Photo by purple_queue from Getty Images
