Why it matters: Costa Rica has granted its first license for medical cannabis cultivation and processing, just over a year after legalizing hemp and medical cannabis.
What they are saying: The first license has been granted to Costa Rican-owned firm Azul Wellness S.A., which is backed by the family of José Álvaro Jenkins, the president of the Costa Rican Union of Chambers and Associations of the Private Business Sector. The firm also partnered with US-based private equity firm Merida Capital Holdings, which specializes in medical cannabis.
The big picture: President Rodrigo Chaves has proposed legalizing the recreational use of cannabis in Costa Rica, citing that “it is no secret to anyone that marijuana is consumed in Costa Rica, more and more openly in the streets and parks. It is a reality.” However, a number of institutions, including The Judicial Investigation Organism, the Medical Association, the College of Psychiatrists, the Institute of Alcoholism and Drug Addiction, the Evangelical Alliance Federation, and some municipalities, have opposed the proposal.
What to watch: As the government prepares to present a substitute text to the recreational legalization bill, citizens are divided on the issue with only 35.4% supporting recreational legalization, according to a survey.
Your take: Do you think Costa Rica should legalize recreational cannabis? Why or why not?
