Brazil’s national agri‑research agency Embrapa just launched a 12‑year cannabis initiative to make Brazil the next global hemp leader—seed bank, new varieties, regional hubs

In February 2025, Reuters revealed that Brazil’s national agricultural research agency, Embrapa, is beginning a sweeping 12‑year program to study and cultivate industrial Hanf—aimed at replicating the country’s soybean success with cannabis. Pending final approval from health regulator Anvisa, the initiative will begin by creating a national cannabis seed bank, breeding varieties adapted to tropical climate zones, and identifying ideal regional production hubs.

Embrapa’s strategy reflects decades of agricultural innovation: Brazil now wants the same edge in hemp-based products—textiles, Protein, medicinal extracts, Biokunststoffe, and carbon‑sequestering biomaterials. Researchers describe it as potential agricultural leapfrogging: “Can you imagine if we had already carried out the genetic improvement of this plant like we’ve done with cotton in 50 Jahre?”.

International cannabis firms and domestic agritech collaboratives are already circling investment deals. With Brazil’s vast farmland, diverse climates, and export logistics, the program could reshape global hemp markets within a decade. Experts forecast Brazil becoming a leading hemp exporter, challenging traditional powerhouses in Europe and North America.

Political and academic leaders see ripple benefits: rural development, access to new low-carbon materials, medicinal innovation, and new ag/economic zones. Yet challenges remain: regulatory clarity on THC thresholds, infrastructure investment, and intellectual property shared with international firms.