Uruguay, the first country in the world to legalize adult-use marijuana in 2013, initially made headlines as a pioneer in cannabis regulation. However, despite early momentum, the industry now faces significant hurdles in export growth, driven by low prices, international trade restrictions and regulatory obstacles. Today, the sector comprises nearly 100 projects and employs around 756 people, with 77% of the workforce based outside the capital.

Challenges Impacting Uruguay's Cannabis

According to a recent article in Ámbito Financiero, half of the companies authorized for cultivation and industrialization in 2023 succeeded in exporting flowers and medical products. Yet, revenues fell sharply, with a...