Dominica to Host National Cannabis Symposium to Advance Medicinal Industry Framework

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy announces the hosting of a National Cannabis Symposium, under the theme “Regulatory and Economic Environment for a Viable Medicinal Cannabis Industry.” The event is scheduled to take place on July 9-10, 2025, at the State House Conference Centre.

The Symposium will engage national, regional and international stakeholders to

discuss the framework for the establishment of a regulated and sustainable

medicinal cannabis industry in Dominica.

Participants will focus on advancing the national dialogue around cannabis policy,

economic potential, licensing and regulation, traditional use, sustainable cultivation

and international investment. The overarching goal is to transition cannabis from the

informal market into a well-regulated, inclusive and economically viable sector that

contributes to agricultural diversification and job creation.

The National Cannabis Symposium will feature plenary sessions with regional

experts, policymakers and researchers to address key policy, regulatory and

economic issues. Among the featured presenters are Dominican-born Dr. Machel

Emmanuel, a botanist and leading cannabis researcher at UWI Mona, and Brendon

Roberts, author of Cannabis Development.

A Cannabis Investment Dinner will showcase business opportunities to potential

investors, while a Cannabis Exposition will highlight local value-added products

along the entire value chain. A Ministerial Technical Working Group will explore

regional collaboration and harmonized approaches to cannabis regulation. The

programme also includes a cultural interlude led by the House of Nyabinghi,

acknowledging the cultural and spiritual significance of cannabis.

The Symposium is expected to advance the Medicinal Cannabis Bill, establish the

framework for a Cannabis Licensing Authority, and position Dominica as a credible

producer and investment destination.

The Ministry has planned the Symposium as part of its broader efforts to modernize

agriculture and support a resilient and diversified economy through innovation,

research and inclusive participation.

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