Saint Kitts and Nevis is advancing efforts to establish a regulated Medicinal Cannabis sector, with the Medicinal Cannabis Authority reporting key developments during the Quarterly Press Conference of the ministries and departments overseen by the Federal Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, et al., the Hon. Samal Duggins.

The Authority revealed that it has received its first completed applications, marking a major step toward licensing the country’s first medicinal cannabis operator and creating a compliant, sustainable industry.

To support the sector’s growth, the Authority has begun developing a banking framework for medicinal cannabis businesses. Former St. Vincent and the Grenadines Minister of Agriculture, Saboto Caesar has been engaged to provide expertise, drawing his experience in establishing financial systems for the industry.

Chief Executive Officer, Nadiv Mills said Caesar is meeting with financial institutions to identify challenges for cannabis ventures and develop solutions for banking services within the sector.

The Authority is also preparing to introduce a “Seed-to-Sale” Tracking System to strengthen transparency and regulatory compliance, while its responsible use campaign continues to promote safety, medical oversight, youth protection, and public awareness.