The Government of the Republic of Moldova has significantly expanded permitted industrial hemp uses, approving new regulations that broaden the range of raw materials that can be processed and marketed. This development, announced on April 30, 2026, builds on earlier regulatory approvals that green-lighted industrial hemp cultivation in the country, as previously reported by Hemp Gazette.
The newly approved “Regulation on the procedure for authorizing, cultivating, monitoring, marketing and processing industrial/horticultural hemp” is designed to enhance the economic viability of the sector. This strategic expansion is projected to increase the value obtained per hectare by up to 40 percent, providing additional resources for private sector investment and development, according to a report published by Hemp Gazette on April 30, 2026.
Expanded Utilisation of Industrial Hemp Raw Materials
Previously, industrial hemp in Moldova was primarily restricted to use for fiber, seeds, and oil. The updated regulation significantly broadens this scope, permitting the use of additional plant components and derived products. This change is poised to unlock new market opportunities for Moldovan producers.
- Stalks and Biomass: The regulation now explicitly allows for the use of hemp stalks and general biomass.
- Derived Products: New permitted applications include briquettes, industrial oils, food supplements, and cosmetic products, alongside other legally permissible uses.
The Moldovan government reiterates that industrial hemp is classified as a technical plant, containing only trace amounts of psychoactive substances, thus preventing its use as a drug.
Regulatory Framework and Compliance
To ensure robust oversight and compliance, the new regulation details specific procedures for authorisation, cultivation, and monitoring. The National Food Safety Agency (ANSA) has been designated as the primary authority responsible for these processes.
Authorisation and Monitoring
ANSA will be responsible for issuing authorisations to farmers who legally own or use agricultural land. Each authorisation will include comprehensive information, such as:
- Details of the applicant.
- The specific purpose of cultivation.
- The area and location of the land designated for hemp.
- The variety of industrial hemp to be cultivated.
- The intended methods for utilising the harvested production.
Producers are mandated to maintain a production record register, which must be stored and archived in accordance with national legislation. ANSA will conduct both planned and unplanned inspections to verify adherence to all regulatory requirements. In cases of non-compliance, the agency holds the authority to order corrective actions or, if necessary, withdraw the cultivation authorisation.
THC Content Determination and Market Access
A critical component of the regulatory framework is the procedure for determining tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content. Analyses will be conducted during the flowering period of the plants. Representative samples will be collected and tested in accredited laboratories, including those located outside Moldova, to ensure accuracy and impartiality.
The production derived from the cultivation of industrial hemp may be marketed within the territory of Moldova and is also permitted for export, provided the necessary authorisation is in place. Producers are required to report their annual production data to ANSA. This structured approach to cultivation, processing, and marketing is expected to foster a more dynamic and valuable industrial hemp sector in Moldova, attracting further investment and supporting agricultural diversification through expanded industrial hemp uses.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Hemp Gazette does not provide medical recommendations, diagnoses, or treatment plans. Always consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before making any decisions regarding your health or any medical condition. Statements concerning the therapeutic uses of hemp, cannabis, or cannabinoid-derived products have not been evaluated by Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Medicinal cannabis products in Australia are accessed via prescription pathways under TGA regulation.
