How the Cannabis Market is Growing Worldwide and What It Means for Ireland
Being a small CBD dispensary in Ireland, I’ve seen firsthand how cannabis—more specifically, hemp and CBD—has changed lives. Whether it’s a farmer looking for a sustainable crop, a builder seeking eco-friendly materials, a patient searching for relief, or someone simply enjoying a legal CBD-infused tea, the versatility of this plant is undeniable.
While Ireland is still cautious about fully embracing cannabis, the rest of the world is moving forward at an incredible pace. And as we face economic uncertainty, wouldn’t it make sense to look at an industry proving to be a goldmine elsewhere?
A Booming Global Market
Cannabis has gone from being an underground industry to one of the fastest-growing global markets. The legal cannabis industry is expected to reach over $100 billion globally by 2030, with North America leading the way. The U.S. and Canada have reaped the benefits of legalisation, creating thousands of jobs, boosting tax revenues, and fostering innovation in everything from medicine to sustainable agriculture.
In Europe, countries like Germany, Portugal, and Malta are paving the way for full-scale cannabis industries. Germany, in particular, is set to become the biggest legal cannabis market in Europe, with full legalisation on the horizon. Luxembourg has decriminalised personal use, while Switzerland is testing recreational cannabis programs.
The UK has also taken steps forward, with medical cannabis now available on prescription, and an ever-growing CBD market that sees millions of consumers daily.
How Could Ireland Benefit?
Ireland is no stranger to economic struggles. With inflation, housing shortages, and a farming industry under pressure, we need new solutions. Cannabis could be one of them.
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Farming & Agriculture – Ireland has a long history of agriculture, and cannabis is an incredibly versatile crop. Hemp, a non-psychoactive variety of cannabis, grows exceptionally well in Irish soil. It requires fewer pesticides, less water, and absorbs carbon from the air—making it an environmentally friendly and profitable crop for struggling farmers.
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Sustainable Construction – Hempcrete, made from hemp fibers, is a lightweight, carbon-negative material that’s gaining popularity in green construction. With Ireland’s ongoing housing crisis, investing in hemp-based construction could provide affordable, sustainable housing while also creating jobs in a brand-new sector.
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Medical Advancements – The medicinal properties of cannabis are well-documented. Countries with legal medical cannabis industries have seen huge advancements in treatments for conditions like chronic pain, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis. Expanding Ireland’s medical cannabis program could improve patients’ quality of life while also attracting investment into the biotech sector.
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Tax Revenue & Economic Growth – Look at places like Colorado, where cannabis taxes have funded schools, public health, and infrastructure. A well-regulated cannabis market in Ireland could bring in millions in tax revenue, easing economic pressures and creating thousands of jobs.
Changing Perceptions & Looking to the Future
I see it every day in my shop—people are becoming more open to the benefits of cannabis. Many were skeptical at first, but after trying CBD for anxiety, sleep, or chronic pain, their opinions shift. Education is key, and the more we talk about the possibilities, the closer we get to real change.
Ireland doesn’t need to be left behind while the rest of the world moves forward. If we embrace the cannabis industry, we could create a more sustainable economy, support struggling industries, and offer people natural alternatives for health and wellness.
The future is green—let’s not miss our chance to be part of it.