Industrial hemp: what it is, uses and regulation | Brazcann

Industrial hemp is Cannabis sativa grown with very low THC content (up to 0.3%) — that is, with no psychoactive effect. It is not a drug: it is one of the most versatile and sustainable plant materials there is, used in textile fiber, bioplastics, paper, food, cosmetics, construction and even advanced materials with graphene. This guide explains what it is, what it is for and how Brazilian regulation is opening up this chain.

Hemp is not marijuana

The popular term "marijuana" refers to varieties rich in THC (psychoactive). Industrial hemp has residual THC (≤ 0.3%) and is grown for fiber, seed and non-psychoactive cannabinoids (such as CBD). That distinction — technical and legal — is what enables its industrial and food use.

Main uses

• Textile fiber — strong, breathable and with a low water footprint; see the case of footwear and clothing in hemp fiber.
• Bioplastics and composites — replace fossil plastic in interiors, electronics and packaging; e.g., hemp bioplastic in automotive interiors.
• Food — the seed is a complete protein, rich in omega 3 and 6; e.g., hemp seed protein.
• Advanced materials — hemp fiber reinforced with graphene for lightness and strength; e.g., a lighter body with hemp and graphene.
• Construction, paper and bioenergy — hempcrete, high-yield paper and biofuels.

Why it is sustainable

Hemp grows fast, needs little water, improves the soil and sequesters carbon during cultivation. That is why it fits into the decarbonization goals of entire industries — from fashion to automotive.

Regulation in Brazil

Industrial hemp cultivation becomes viable with RDC 1,013/2026, which sets the requirements for cultivating hemp (THC ≤ 0.3%) for medical and research purposes, within the new 2026 regulatory framework. Seed import follows MAPA Ordinance 1,342/2025. The full text is at RDC 1,013/2026.

Frequently asked questions

Does industrial hemp have a psychoactive effect?

No. By definition it has THC ≤ 0.3%, not enough for a psychoactive effect; it is an industrial and food material.

Is hemp legal in Brazil?

Industrial cultivation advances with RDC 1,013/2026; seed import follows MAPA's phytosanitary requirements.

What is hemp used for?

Textile fiber, bioplastics, paper, food (seed), cosmetics, construction (hempcrete), bioenergy and advanced materials.

Brazcann helps companies structure hemp projects in Brazil — from regulation to the supply chain. See the regulation in the system and explore the brand-by-brand analyses.

Informative content; always check the official texts of Anvisa and MAPA.