Panama Turns to Hemp as a Green Solution to Economic Troubles

Panama’s National Assembly might just have made history. They approved a law to legalize hemp farming and sales. This could change everything.

The country is fighting unemployment. Its Social Security Fund is in crisis. Hemp might be the answer. 

Supporters believe it could create thousands of jobs and provide a much-needed boost to the agricultural sector.

Hemp is a versatile plant. It’s part of the Cannabis sativa family, just like marijuana. But they are not the same.

Hemp has almost no delta-9-THC—the chemical that makes you high. That means it can be safely used for industrial and commercial purposes without any psychoactive effects. 

Moreover, the plant has a long list of uses. Hemp is a powerhouse, loaded with fiber, seeds, and oil. It is perfect for producing textiles, paper, building materials, food, and even cosmetics. In other words, hemp is a natural solution with countless applications. Because it grows quickly and uses less water and pesticides than other crops, it is also environmentally friendly.

Independent lawmaker Carlos Saldaña spearheaded the newly approved Bill 26. It outlines strict regulations for every stage of hemp production, from planting and harvesting to marketing and export. It also regulates the distribution, use, and possession of hemp seeds. For Panama, hemp is a lifeline now. As the workforce struggles, hemp could turn things around. Jobs, growth, and a brighter future could be created all from one plant.

Since Panama’s Social Security Fund has been under strain, it leaves many without stable incomes. The hemp industry promises to create jobs without relying on government aid. Farmers and agricultural workers stand to benefit the most. 

Hemp cultivation can increase their yields and open doors to new markets. But the benefits don’t stop at employment. Hemp is a sustainable crop that even enriches the soil. The decision to legalize hemp also positions the country as a potential player in the global market for sustainable products. With many countries shifting toward eco-friendly alternatives, hemp’s popularity is on the rise.  

The bill’s approval is a significant step, but it’s not the final one. It now heads to President José Raúl Mulino, who will decide whether to sign it into law or veto it. If approved, Panama might become one of the many nations using hemp’s untapped potential to address broader environmental and economic issues.  

Even though the final decision rests in the hands of the president, the passing of this bill is a sign of hope for thousands of agricultural workers. It positions hemp as a vital part of Panama’s economic recovery. Throughout history, hemp has often been overlooked, but now it is up to Panama to use it to its full potential.