Medical cannabis firm Australian Natural Therapeutics Group (ANTG) has been provided a $1.38 million government grant for targeted infrastructure upgrades to its Armidale facility in New South Wales.
The upgrades, which will include improved greenhouse systems, post-harvest environments, and advanced processing equipment will also create 20 new jobs in the region relating to cultivation, manufacturing, quality control and logistics.
“This investment is a milestone not only for ANTG, but for the future of Australia’s medicinal cannabis sector,” said ANTG CEO, Matt Cantelo. “It recognises the world-class capability that exists right here in Armidale, a regional facility producing some of the best, evidence-backed medicinal cannabis products in the world.”
Commenting on the cash, Member for Northern Tablelands Brendan Moylan MP said the firm played a big role in the Armidale economy and the funding will ensure continued growth into the future.
Headquartered in Byron Bay, Australian Natural Therapeutics Group was founded in 2016. The firm is a vertically integrated operation across cultivation, GMP manufacturing, research, and international distribution. ANTG supplies products to patients in Germany, New Zealand, and most recently, the United Kingdom.
In related news from the firm, ANTG signed a landmark distribution agreement with Curaleaf last month to supply its Australian medicinal cannabis products into the UK; which is the second largest market in Europe. Under the agreement, ANTG’s products will be provided to UK patients through established clinical and pharmacy channels
“Entering the UK market reflects confidence in Australian-grown, research driven cannabinoid medicines, and our commitment to ensuring patients have access to consistent, high-quality products supported by clinical standards,” said Mr. Cantelo.
In October, ANTG announced a significant expansion of its cultivation and manufacturing facilities in Brisbane, after being granted related Office of Drug Control (ODC) approval permits. The permits allow ANTG to cultivate an additional 1.5 tonnes per annum of proprietary flower.
The expansion will allow ANTG to commence Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) of ethanol extractions for a range of products, boost its export capacity, create “numerous” jobs in Southeast Queensland, and greater industry collaboration.
“We are looking forward to expanding our expertise and capability in this area by offering contract manufacturing services,” said ANTG’s Andrew Cormack. “I welcome the opportunity to discuss potential manufacturing partnerships to drive industry change and bring more capability onshore to provide Australian-grown and manufactured products to patients.”
