While many sectors in the province have experienced heavy financial strain due to COVID-19, Manitoba’s cannabis industry appears to be flying as high as ever.
Two years since recreational use of marijuana was legalized across the country, Manitoba’s cannabis authority is exploring the possibility of providing licensing to allow businesses like restaurants and spas to offer cannabis products.
The first new Manitoba cannabis retailer licensed since the province loosened regulatory COVID-19 restrictions in June plans to fill its shelves with legal pot products in just over a week.
Manitoba could see new players in the local cannabis market, after Crown Services minister Jeff Wharton announced Friday that the province’s pot retail application process will be open to all prospective retailers.
A separate medical cannabis system must remain in place to protect patient access and proper treatment after recreational sales of the drug are legal, argues a local advocate.