European Hemp sector prepares for pivotal 2025 Berlin conference amid regulatory shifts and innovation drive
The European Industrial Hemp Association (EIHA) is gearing up for its 22nd Annual Conference, set to take place from June 11 to 13, 2025, in Berlin, Germany. Building on the momentum of last year’s successful gathering in Prague, this meeting will bring together key stakeholders from the hemp and cannabis sectors at a time when significant policy changes and technological advancements are reshaping the landscape. The event promises a robust agenda filled with regulatory insights, scientific developments, and practical applications, making it a pivotal forum for those involved across farming, processing, manufacturing, and advocacy.
A notable highlight of the conference will be a high-level panel discussion titled “Germany: A New Regulatory Approach,” scheduled for the morning of June 12. Moderated by Lorenza Romanese, Managing Director of EIHA, the panel will feature influential speakers such as Karl Bär from the Bundestag, who will address the current reforms in Germany's hemp policy, and Patrick Georgi from the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture, who will delve into the country's regulatory framework. This dialogue aims to provide attendees with exclusive insights into how Berlin is positioning itself as a regulatory hub and to facilitate deeper discussions surrounding cross-border collaboration in the hemp sector.
In addition to policy discussions, the conference will showcase cutting-edge research and innovations within the hemp industry. The Thursday morning session on "Breeding and Farming" will explore various agronomic strategies and research breakthroughs. Notable presentations will include Dr. Jason Argyris's examination of cannabis mutation discovery and crop improvement, as well as updates on Slovenia’s first registered hemp variety by Dr. Marko Flajšman. This focus on genetics will underpin Europe’s competitive edge by addressing global challenges in hemp cultivation and processing.
Post-lunch, the programme will split into two tracks dedicated to Fibres and Textiles and Construction. Each session promises to be rich in content, featuring expert insights into the transition from raw hemp to high-quality textiles and the establishment of a hemp-centric construction value chain. Presenters include representatives from the Danish Technological Institute discussing long-fiber hemp and research on hemp-crete innovations from Switzerland. This dual approach highlights the versatility of hemp across different sectors and its potential role in sustainable construction.
As networking is crucial in this growing sector, the EIHA will host various events, including its Annual General Meeting and a networking party exclusively for members, creating a forum for strategic discussions and relationship building. Notably, the "Party at the Pub" event on June 12 will invite all conference attendees to engage in casual networking, reflecting Europe’s vibrant hemp culture while setting the stage for the concluding day's programming.
Friday will dive into topics surrounding CBD and value chain development, featuring a panel led again by Romanese, which will highlight innovations in the CBD market and implications for regulatory practices in Europe. The aim here is to equip stakeholders with knowledge concerning marketing authorisation frameworks and safety standards across regions, enhancing the overall understanding of the hemp market’s dynamics.
Additionally, an international session later that day will examine global perspectives on hemp advocacy and research. By engaging speakers from various regions, including Ukraine and Pakistan, this session is expected to showcase international collaborations and strategies that are vital for establishing an interconnected hemp economy.
In an era where sustainability is increasingly paramount, the EIHA Conference aims to position hemp as a viable resource across multiple industries, from textiles to construction. With registration and sponsorship opportunities currently available, stakeholders are encouraged to secure their participation and gain insights that could shape the future of Europe’s growing hemp sector.
As companies and organisations continue to embrace hemp’s potential, the EIHA's commitment to advocating for favourable policies on both EU and global stages is essential to ensuring the industry's long-term viability and sustainability.