Malta pioneered the medicinal cannabis sector by establishing a production and distribution framework in 2018, leveraging its robust pharmaceutical regulatory framework and strategic geographic location to position itself as a key player in the rapidly evolving industry.
The Medicinal Cannabis Act provides a clear and comprehensive framework for the cultivation, production, and export of cannabis-based products, attracting significant investment from global players.
One of Malta’s key strengths is its stringent quality standards, regulated by the Malta Medicines Authority. The authority ensures that medicinal cannabis products meet the highest benchmarks for safety, efficacy, and consistency, and that they are produced in line with the EU’s Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards. This focus on quality has enabled Malta to establish itself as a trusted supplier of cannabis-derived medicines to international markets.
Despite initial regulatory and technical challenges, the industry gained momentum, with Malta-made products reaching patients abroad by 2022. Numerous companies now operate research and production facilities in the country.
Alongside the regulatory clarity provided by legislation, Malta’s mature pharmaceutical sector has supported the growth of this nascent industry, which continues to expand monthly. With the global medicinal cannabis market projected to reach €25 billion by 2026, Malta is poised for substantial growth.
