The global regulatory landscape has evolved significantly in the last year. According to Fortune Business Insights, “The global cannabis market size was valued at USD 43.72 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow from USD 57.18 billion in 2023 to USD 444.34 billion by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 34.03% during the forecast period.” Such highly forecasted growth would make most expansion decisions a no-brainer for moving beyond the tightly regulated U.S. market. Below is a list of key players in the global cannabis sector, in no particular order.
Europe is seemingly front and center with significant potential for opportunities in operations and investment. Germany continues to delay its most recent policies, but the outlook is positive, and investors have taken note. Switzerland has become the most favorable destination for operations as the laws allow most products, and an adult-use program already exists. Not to be counted out, Latin America is producing some of the finest biomass and products serving the globe. But with hemp on the rise again for many operators that feel boxed in by legal THC restrictions, China seems like the biggest prize for those who can manage it.
Africa continues to produce biomass for many operations globally. The positive economic impact for many on the continent has been noticeable. The globe is ready for this plant to finally be free of its Draconian laws prohibiting the commodity from reaching its full potential, and this list includes some of the most influential movers and shakers to support the global rollout.
Suppose a company is looking abroad for expanded opportunities in manufacturing, worldwide distribution, freedom in import/export, and relaxed and full-service banking abilities. In that case, contacting one of the international operators on this list could be helpful. For this year’s list, Benzinga compiled people who will have some of the most considerable impact on the global cannabis industry in 2024.
Key Figures Impacting the Global Cannabis Landscape
Dean Gainsley (UK) Commercial Director GROW
With over twenty years as a portfolio manager in the financial markets and ten years working in the financial division of one of the world’s largest agricultural firms, Gainsley is an experienced angel investor in emerging industries and an advisor to early-stage companies.
GROW (GROW Group PLC) is the UK’s largest distributor of medical cannabis, with a growing presence in Germany and Australia. In 2019, GROW was the first company to bulk import medical cannabis into the UK.
GROW’s UK business accounts for approximately 35% of the country’s medical cannabis sales by volume and value (both wholesale and retail pharmacy). The UK market is currently mostly flower, but GROW also supplies oils, capsules, and vape cartridges.
Irwin D. Simon (US) Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of TILRAY, Inc. TLRY
Irwin D. Simon is an executive with over 30 years of experience building industry-leading consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies ranging from organic and natural foods and dietary supplements to personal care and cannabis.
Tilray Brands, Inc. TLRYTLRY is a global cannabis-lifestyle and CPG company operating in Canada, the United States, Europe, Australia, and Latin America. A pioneer in cannabis research, cultivation, and distribution, Tilray’s production platform supports over 20 brands in over 20 countries, including comprehensive cannabis offerings, hemp-based foods, and alcoholic beverages.
While Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) who pay themselves more than $ 250k annually are seemingly not aligned with the team or shareholders, Simon is one of the top ten highest-paid CEOs in Canada, with a salary of over $15M.
Jade Green (US) Founder Jade Green Consulting / CannaMLS
Jade Green Consulting is an elite professional advisory firm focused on international business initiatives. Founded and led by industry veteran Jade Green, her consultancy provides subject matter expertise and a select suite of services to help clients identify and achieve their global commercial interests in rapidly evolving sectors, from fintech to life sciences. Her platform, CannaMLS, is the leading turnkey solution for dispensaries across the U.S. for buying licenses and real estate.
Cynthia Salarizadeh (US) Founder and CEO of the international communications firm Asha Media Group (AMG)
Asha Media Group currently has international clients across the supply chain operating throughout the United States, Canada, Europe, Africa, Asia, and South America. The MediaSphere PR & Marketing AI technology platform powers AMG.
As a media maven, Salarizadeh knows everyone and is instrumental behind the scenes at many industry events as a mega-connector on multiple continents. She co-founded Argentina-based Spanish news and cultural publication El Planteo. Prior to that, Salarizadeh co-founded the cannabis finance news publication Green Market Report, which Crain’s Communications acquired. As an entrepreneur, in addition to being a public relations executive, Salarizadeh founded the luxury cannabis-infused beverage brand House of Saka.
Dr. Chanda Macias (US/Germany/Canada) Chief Executive Officer of National Holistic Healthcare,
Chairwoman of the Board of Managers, and CEO of Women Grow
Dr. Chanda Macias, MBA, is the CEO of National Holistic Healthcare, a medical cannabis cultivator, processor, and dispenser in the United States that expanded to Germany as Deutschland Holistic GmbH. In a marketplace with developing regulatory laws, Dr. Macias continually focuses on delivering affordable medical cannabis healthcare options.
Dr. Macias has spent over 15 years developing her knowledge of medical cannabis to have a positive impact on patients’ lives. She started her career in the flagship medical cannabis dispensary in Washington D.C., National Holistic™ Healing Center.
Pioneers and Innovators Shaping the Global Cannabis Industry
Dr. Maciacs – Advocating for Industry Reform
As the vice chair of the National Cannabis Roundtable (NCR) Board, Dr. Maciacs is dedicated to advancing sensible federal legislation, tax equity, and financial services reform. Her commitment to the NCR aligns with the organization’s mission to drive positive change within the cannabis industry. Additionally, as Chairwoman of the Board of Managers and CEO of Women Grow, she harnesses her platform to further the goal of connecting, educating, and empowering the next generation of women leaders in the cannabis industry.
Kenzi Riboulet-Zemouli – A Driving Force Behind Cannabis Advocacy
Kenzi Riboulet-Zemouli, a co-founder of the Cannabis Embassy, has been a pivotal figure in advancing cannabis and hemp-related research and advocacy. His contributions, including the publication of influential educational books, have greatly impacted the global perception of cannabis and its potential within various industries. Riboulet-Zemouli’s relentless work has played a significant role in reshaping global regulations and perceptions surrounding cannabis legalization.
Wellington Clayton – A Leading Jamaican Ganja Cultivator
Wellington “Wabba” Clayton, known for his exceptional expertise in cultivating high-quality Jamaican Ganja, has not only excelled in cannabis cultivation but has also created a thriving tourist attraction with Wabba’s Weed Adventure and Tours. His dedication to empowering cannabis farmers in Jamaica while building successful businesses reflects his commitment to both his craft and his community.
Maximillian Weinberg – Propelling Cannabis-Based Pharmaceutical Distribution
Maximillian Weinberg, the founder of Can4Med, has played a pivotal role in establishing a cannabis-based pharmaceutical wholesale operation in Central/Eastern Europe. With extensive experience in the pharmaceutical industry, Weinberg’s innovative approach has facilitated the market entry for cannabis companies into the Eastern European markets, contributing to the expansion of the industry in the region.
Nancy Whiteman – Leading Wana Brands’ International Expansion
Nancy Whiteman, as the Co-founder and CEO of Wana Brands, has overseen the brand’s remarkable growth, positioning Switzerland as its global operations base. The international recognition of Wana Brands, with its acquisition option by Canopy Growth Corp, reflects Whiteman’s exceptional leadership and the brand’s significant impact on the cannabis industry.
Matt Darin – Driving Curaleaf’s Strategic Growth
Matt Darin, with his experience as the former Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Grassroots Cannabis, has significantly influenced the multi-state operations of Curaleaf. His instrumental role in expanding Curaleaf’s international footprint and strategic focus on markets like Germany and the United Kingdom reflects his commitment to driving the company’s success and growth in the global cannabis industry.
Lana Korneva – Strategic Leadership in the Medical Cannabis Industry
Lana Korneva’s dynamic leadership as the Co-Founder & CEO of Drapalin Pharmaceuticals GmbH has been pivotal in establishing the company as a major player in the medical cannabis industry. Her strategic vision and understanding of global pharmaceutical dynamics have propelled the company to operate across multiple countries with consistent revenues and positive growth.
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