Spanish organizations launched a project to make Extremadura an industrial hemp hub. The National Agri-Food Technology Center of Extremadura (CTAEX) and Bhalutek Hemp say it will promote development and comprehensive use of the plant and provide access to cultivation and processing technologies.
The group aims to make the region a national research and innovation center while offering training for scientists, technicians and farmers.
21 members
The partners say they have signed agreements with 21 members since launching the initiative, including the University of Málaga and the University of Extremadura.
“Given the current health crisis, the economic downturn is very likely to worsen in coming years and require decisive steps,” CTAEX said.
“Thanks to its properties and multiple uses, industrial hemp could offer an opportunity to revitalize our rural areas through an environmental, economic and sustainable approach,” it added, noting that Spain needs supporting legislation.
Changes are needed
CTAEX president Juan José Manzanero said European countries need regulatory changes for the hemp sector to develop fully.
The initiative received full support from both Junta de Extremadura president Guillermo Fernández Vara and regional government representative Yolanda García Seco.
Based in Badajoz, Spain, CTAEX is a private nonprofit R&D center backed by an agri-food association. It specializes in developing research and development projects nationally in Spain.
