Story perspectives

New Zealand's Cannabis Exports Surge, Aiming for Global Leadership

3/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

David Seymour, a New Zealand politician, argues New Zealand should become a leading exporter of medicinal cannabis.
A Ministry of Health report shows cannabis flower exports rose to over a tonne in 2024, more than doubling from 2023.
Key markets for exports include Australia, Portugal, and Uruguay.
Medsafe reduced application processing times by 56% in 2024 compared with 2023.
Medsafe continues to refine processes to support businesses in this sector.

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Story summary

David Seymour, a New Zealand politician, argues New Zealand should become a leading exporter of medicinal cannabis.
A Ministry of Health report shows cannabis flower exports rose to over a tonne in 2024, more than doubling from 2023.
Key markets for exports include Australia, Portugal, and Uruguay.
Medsafe reduced application processing times by 56% in 2024 compared with 2023.
Medsafe continues to refine processes to support businesses in this sector.