AGP Executive Report

Cross-border enforcement: Canada’s CBSA signed a Letter of Intent with customs agencies in the Netherlands, Belgium, and France to better disrupt international drug trafficking through shared info and joint operations. Airport busts: Hong Kong Customs seized about 3.4 kg of suspected cocaine and 16 kg of suspected cannabis buds from two women at Hong Kong International Airport, with investigations ongoing. Smuggling crackdown: India’s customs at Lucknow airport arrested a passenger and seized 10.397 kg of hydroponic marijuana worth about ₹10.39 crore. Organized crime via mail: UK police jailed a drug gang that used Royal Mail parcels to send drugs worth £2.2m, including cannabis resin and THC edibles. Cannabis and health policy: Philadelphia City Council passed bills tightening smoke shop rules by defining kratom and hemp-based THC as intoxicating substances requiring permits, plus testing and age limits. Research link: A study in Biological Psychiatry Global Open Science reports genetic pathways supporting a causal link from cannabis use disorder to psychosis. Industry moves: Vireo Growth closed its Bridgewell acquisition and announced dispensary deal steps in Nevada and Maryland. Sports + cannabis commerce: Toronto and Vancouver dispensaries are gearing up for World Cup foot traffic, betting on delivery and tourist demand.

Cannabis Science: A new study in Biological Psychiatry Global Open Science links cannabis use disorder to psychosis, pointing to a stronger causal pull from CUD to psychosis than the reverse. Policy & Courts: Anti-marijuana groups and MMJ International are appealing a federal judge’s dismissal of a lawsuit over Medicare coverage for up to $500 of hemp-derived products, keeping the legal fight alive. Local Regulation: Philadelphia City Council passed bills to tighten rules on smoke shops, treating hemp-based THC and kratom as “intoxicating substances” needing permits, testing, and age limits, plus penalties for unlicensed landlords. Business Moves: Vireo Growth closed its Bridgewell Agribusiness acquisition and announced dispensary deals in Nevada and Maryland, while TerrAscend filed for a shareholder vote on a share consolidation ahead of a potential U.S. uplisting. Enforcement: India’s DRI seized 522 kg of ganja in a truck bust near Mouda, and Kerala police arrested two foreign nationals tied to an international drug smuggling operation. World Cup Boost: Canadian dispensaries in Toronto and Vancouver are gearing up for World Cup foot traffic with novelty products and delivery plans.

Nigeria–Malaysia Cannabis Case: Malaysia’s police are investigating claims that a 63-year-old woman detained in Nigeria for allegedly smuggling 31kg of “Canadian Loud” cannabis was set up by her daughter, with efforts underway to locate the daughter. Cannabis Enforcement in South Africa: In Witbank, a peaceful march drew about 1,500 people, but Home Affairs checks led to 14 undocumented foreign nationals being arrested and charged. Drug Seizure Update: South African police intercepted a R134k drug haul on the R360 corridor, arresting two suspects after dagga and Mandrax tablets were found in a vehicle. Indonesia Court Sentencing: A Bali court sentenced a Russian national to eight months and 15 days for failing to report a drug offense tied to an alleged hydroponic cannabis operation. Industry & Policy Watch: A U.S. cannabis capital conference in Chicago will host live interviews ahead of the DEA’s federal rescheduling hearing on June 29. EU Market Signal: Faven Lighting announced a European event tour aimed at commercial cannabis cultivators, pitching lighting tech to boost yields and consistency.

International Cannabis Enforcement: Telangana’s EAGLE Force says it dismantled a Thailand-to-India hydroponic cannabis syndicate, seizing about 12.79 kg (₹12.7 crore) and identifying 40 people, with 10 arrests so far, after airport and junction interceptions tied to a Pattaya-based network. Sports & Policy: The WNBA removed marijuana from its prohibited substances list and set new rules for how players can invest and promote hemp CBD/cannabis-related businesses, while still adding some psychedelics to the banned list. Public Health: Queensland issued a measles alert for Cairns locations including the hospital emergency department and a Jetstar flight, warning people to watch for symptoms after possible exposure. Road Safety & Cannabis: A Winnipeg police report says 63% of drivers tested for drug-impaired driving in Q1 2026 were positive, with officers pointing to cannabis as a likely factor. Research: A new study links cannabis-and-tobacco co-use in teens/young adults at clinical risk for psychosis to lower cognitive performance. Local Community Impact: NSW homelessness advocates warn that pressure to move people sleeping rough from Wilks Park and Wagga CBD could strand vulnerable residents away from services.

Neuropsych & Youth Risk: A new study in at-risk teens and young adults links cannabis+tobacco co-use with worse cognitive performance, adding another early warning signal for psychosis risk. Trauma & Cravings: Research also finds that reminders of collective trauma can trigger fast cravings for tobacco and cannabis in regular users, framed as a psychological defense against existential fear. Medical Cannabis Access (Kentucky): The Post Dispensary is rolling out concert-series specials for Kentucky medical patients across Owensboro, Bowling Green and Elizabethtown. Cross-Border Enforcement (India/Thailand): Telangana’s EAGLE Force says it dismantled an international hydroponic cannabis network, arresting carriers and naming foreign suspects, with Look Out Circulars planned. Travel Crackdown (Indonesia): Indonesian police arrested an Australian woman over 59ml of cannabis vape liquid, with prosecutors warning medical claims don’t change the no-exceptions law. CBD in the Real World (US): Fingerboard Farm in Maryland is expanding hemp/CBD sales and agritourism as farmers juggle rising costs. CBD & Public Safety (UK/Europe): Hong Kong Customs seized 31kg of mixed drugs in Mong Kok, including cannabis buds and cannabis oil, as part of a major operation.

NSW Medicinal Cannabis Driving Reform: NSW is moving to let registered medicinal cannabis patients drive if lab tests show THC below 50 ng/mL, avoiding automatic licence suspensions—though roadside bans and penalties still apply for higher results. EU Crackdown on CBD Foods & Flowers: Fresh enforcement is hitting non-psychoactive cannabis products as EU countries tighten rules, with France ending years of tacit tolerance for CBD edibles and flowers. World-First Driver Green Light: A proposed NSW scheme would require enrolment with Transport for NSW and proof of prescription, with a three-strike approach for repeat offences. New York Cannabis Leadership Confirmed: New York’s Senate confirmed cabinet members tied to the Office of Cannabis Management, including John Kagia. Retail & Industry Moves: Curaleaf confirms its reverse stock split effective June 5; Red White & Bloom’s Emblem Cannabis assumes DIP financing for Ayurcann. Global Policy & Enforcement: Multiple countries announce cross-border anti-drug crackdowns, while Hong Kong customs reports cannabis seizures at ferry and airport terminals. Business & Tech (Non-CBD): IREN’s massive Asia-Pacific data centre plan in South Australia targets up to 800MW and hundreds of jobs.

Market Watch: A new report from Custom Market Insights pegs the global controlled environment agriculture market at about $1.09B (2024), rising to $3.22B by 2034 with an 11.36% CAGR, with cannabis listed among key crops. Retail & Culture: Queens hip-hop icon Havoc (Mobb Deep) is opening The Bridge, a new cannabis dispensary in Astoria, tying the launch to diversity and community goals. Policy & Compliance: Taiwan is proposing to revoke driver’s licenses for people who used marijuana overseas if traces are detected after they return, as part of a broader crackdown on drug-impaired driving. Corporate Moves: Curaleaf confirms its 1-for-3 reverse stock split becomes effective June 5, 2026. Product Launch: Pot + Pan rolls out a nationwide line of THC edibles, debuting at the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen. Research: New mouse research suggests non-THC cannabis compounds may help regulate metabolism and improve diabetes-related outcomes without psychiatric side effects. International Enforcement: Vietnam, China, Laos, and Myanmar announce a joint anti-drug crackdown targeting cross-border drug crime and precursor diversion.

Kano Violence: Residents in Kawo, Kano State say suspected Yan Daba clashes have stretched into a third day, disrupting traders and commuters after a dispute involving tricycle operators. University Cannabis Rules: Stellenbosch University approved revised residence rules banning cannabis use, possession and smoking in student accommodation. CBD Congestion: Bulawayo vendors are pushing for a plan to decongest the central business district as informal trading expands amid economic strain. Public Health & Cannabis Delivery: Hopkinton’s Board of Health voted to recommend opting out of new Massachusetts cannabis delivery rules via a two-year waiver. Regulatory Recall: Colorado regulators issued a recall for THC vape products sold under PAX and Eureka Vapor due to banned flavor compounds. Crime & Cannabis Smuggling: A UK prison watchdog chairwoman was jailed for smuggling cannabis to a life-sentenced killer, including bizarre items like custom pillows with the inmate’s face. International Enforcement: Thailand is cracking down on foreign companies using nominee ownership, with authorities also targeting cannabis-related businesses. U.S. Policy Reality Check: DOT guidance says rescheduling medical marijuana won’t let truckers and pilots use state-licensed cannabis under federal safety rules. Business Expansion: Endo Collective opened in Marietta with hemp-derived THC drinks, gummies and tinctures.

Prison Corruption: UK prison watchdog chair Helen Spree was jailed for smuggling cannabis to life-sentenced killer Dylan Westall, after a raid found custom cushions and messages tied to her “Deliveroo for prisoners” scheme. Medical Cannabis Policy: In the US, federal rescheduling of medical marijuana is pushing new research access and clinician training, while the wider federal-state split still leaves businesses waiting on clearer next steps. Industry & Regulation: MMJ International Holdings joined a legal challenge to the Trump rescheduling order, arguing the new framework favors state-market operators over companies that pursued FDA pathways. Enforcement Abroad: Hong Kong Customs seized 5.8 kg of suspected cannabis buds at the ferry terminal and arrested a passenger. Market Pressure: Oklahoma growers say oversupply has crushed wholesale prices, turning the “cannabis bonanza” into a tough squeeze for cultivation businesses. CBD/Health Tech: Intelligent Bio Solutions kicked off a multi-site study to support FDA clearance for its non-invasive drug screening system for codeine. Global Science: Researchers reported chemical proof that plant-based anesthetics were used on 14th-century surgical tools from a Ming Dynasty tomb.

U.S. Federal Court Fight: A new lawsuit challenges the Trump administration’s federal marijuana rescheduling, naming the president and arguing the change skipped required procedures—keeping uncertainty high for state-legal cannabis businesses. Regulatory Shockwaves (Asia): Japan banned the hemp cannabinoid CBN after reports tied it to illnesses and risky behavior, with only limited medical use allowed for intractable epilepsy. Market Push (Australia): Dispensed Australia rolled out a national campaign for medicinal cannabis that leans into “not medical advice” messaging, aiming to build trust as the category grows. Retail Expansion (U.S.): Sweetspot Cannabis Dispensary opened in Hamilton, New Jersey, adding another East Coast store with a full menu of licensed products. Hemp Policy (U.S.): Tennessee’s THC-in-flower crackdown starts hitting as licenses expire, forcing some retailers to clear shelves or shift product types. Crime & Enforcement (Global): Paraguay investigated a major hashish and cannabis seizure from a private jet, while multiple other cases this week highlighted cannabis in cross-border smuggling and prison contraband.

Federal policy shift: The U.S. DOJ’s move to downgrade medical marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III could unlock some federal tax benefits, but the federal/state split stays messy as the DEA prepares its first hearing on broader de-scheduling. Regulatory crackdown in Asia: Japan bans cannabinol (CBN) after reports of illnesses and risky behavior, allowing it only for intractable epilepsy in limited cases. Retail expansion: Sweetspot Cannabis Dispensary opened a new Hamilton, New Jersey store, adding to its East Coast footprint. Union fight: Curaleaf workers in Phoenix voted to decertify their union days after ratifying a contract, reigniting labor tensions. Corporate moves: Verano approved a 1-for-5 reverse stock split to support a future U.S. exchange listing, while NewLake Capital Partners said it will participate in June investor conferences. Drug enforcement headlines: Nigeria’s NDLEA seized cannabis hidden in water purifier machines and also intercepted military-grade ammunition; Paraguay detained four U.S. citizens over a high-THC marijuana aircraft seizure. CBD market demand: A new report projects strong global growth for CBD nutraceuticals as wellness demand accelerates.

Cannabis Policy (Argentina): Argentina lawmakers are debating a bill to fully legalize cannabis and derivatives, aiming to replace decades of prohibition with a regulated system covering self-cultivation, production, storage and commercialization. Drug Enforcement (Nigeria): Nigeria’s NDLEA says it found ketamine and MDMA hidden in water purifier machines shipped from Europe, and also seized large quantities of skunk cannabis plus military-grade ammunition. Traffic Safety (U.S.): Johns Hopkins researchers warn that cannabis edibles plus alcohol can impair driving more than being legally drunk on alcohol alone, and roadside alcohol tests may miss the combined effect. Hemp & Industry (China/FIFA): FIFA licensed a Ningxia hemp-weaving craft for the 2026 World Cup, pushing rural artisans to scale up production for global fans. Customs Crackdowns (Hong Kong/India): Hong Kong Customs seized about 5kg of suspected cannabis buds concealed in snack packaging, while Mumbai Customs arrested a man accused of smuggling hydroponic cannabis worth ₹7.43 crore from Vietnam. Rescheduling Fallout (U.S.): Coverage notes DOJ’s medical marijuana rescheduling may bring some federal tax and research benefits, but states still face a patchwork of rules as broader changes are debated.

U.S. Policy & Markets: The Trump administration’s “Great American Cotton Plan” pushes “Plant Not Plastic,” urging consumers to swap petroleum synthetics for U.S.-grown cotton—an angle that could overlap with hemp/CBD’s broader push for natural, lower-impact materials. Federal vs State Cannabis Rules: A U.S. report says the DOJ’s medical marijuana reclassification (Schedule I to III) may unlock some federal tax benefits, but businesses still face a messy patchwork until more federal hearings on broader rescheduling. Enforcement Roundup (Africa): Nigeria’s NDLEA seized ketamine and MDMA hidden in water purifier machines plus military-grade ammo, while Zambia’s DEC intercepted a bus carrying compressed cannabis and codeine. Enforcement Roundup (Europe): Dutch customs reported massive cocaine and large cannabis seizures across ports and Schiphol routes. CBD/THC Risk Abroad: A Disney manager in Russia was jailed for THC-infused gummy candies, underscoring how CBD/THC products can trigger serious legal trouble overseas. Industry/Community: Vermont’s Lake Effect Vermont cannabis market is reopening in a new South Hero location, signaling continued retail expansion.

U.S. Policy Watch: State marijuana officials are frustrated by the lack of clear federal guidance after medical cannabis was reclassified, even as businesses get some tax relief and the DEA prepares more hearings on what rescheduling could mean next. Legal & Compliance: A Swiss study claims cannabis use can raise testosterone in young men, adding fuel to the debate over health effects. Enforcement Abroad: Zambia’s Drug Enforcement Commission seized cannabis and codeine after stopping a bus in Kabwe, arresting five. Tourism & Travel: Canada’s border agency says a FIFA World Cup ticket isn’t a “FIFA visa,” warning travelers not to bring cannabis across the border. Industry Spotlight: Vermont’s Lake Effect Vermont is opening a new permanent cannabis market location in South Hero with a community ribbon-cutting. Business & Culture: Amsterdam’s city marketing arm is still funding press trips despite calls to cut tourism pressure, while a South Africa crackdown on undocumented foreigners is leaving some workers and small businesses scrambling.

U.S. Federal Policy: Trump’s administration move to reclassify medical cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III is driving fresh state-level fallout and business expectations, with lawmakers and industry groups weighing what comes next for regulated markets. DEA Rescheduling Watch: The DEA is set to hold a hearing on marijuana rescheduling next month, keeping federal timelines front and center for operators and investors. Driving Safety: New Johns Hopkins research warns that combining cannabis edibles with alcohol can impair driving more than either alone, and current roadside tests may miss cannabis-related impairment. Hemp & Legal Battles: A hemp-related lawsuit by Smart Approaches to Marijuana was dismissed over standing, while Virginia’s retail cannabis bill veto debate continues as lawmakers look toward a possible next session. International Enforcement: Italy arrested five suspects tied to an alleged Rome abduction and gang rape where cannabis/hashish was reportedly used to lure the victim. Africa Drug Trends: Tanzania reported a sharp 55.97% drop in cannabis seized in 2025, citing farm destruction and public education. Business Moves: ZenaTech says it’s pushing into AI data-center construction monitoring with LiDAR software, signaling continued tech investment interest around cannabis-adjacent markets.

U.S. Federal Cannabis Shift: DOJ’s move to reclassify medical marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III is already reshaping what states can do, with the next big question hanging over broader marijuana rescheduling and what it means for businesses and research. Legal Pushback: Three AGs and industry groups are suing to stop the reclassification, while MMJ International filed a formal challenge ahead of the DEA’s June 29 rescheduling hearing. Public Safety: A Johns Hopkins study warns that edible cannabis plus alcohol can impair driving more than either alone, and standard roadside tests may miss the combined effect. Global Enforcement: Tanzania says it seized 1,074.72 tonnes of narcotics in 2025, including 1,014.06 tonnes of cannabis, though cannabis seizures fell sharply vs 2024. Tech & Compliance: Cannabix expanded its BreathLogix alcohol screening into Australia’s mining, municipal, and aviation sectors. Local Spotlight: Dundee police uncovered £850,000 in cannabis cultivation, while South Africa’s KZN police say they’re bracing for weekend truck protests tied to anti-foreigner tensions. Hemp & Cultivation: Research in Argentina suggests reclaimed wastewater could support outdoor cannabis irrigation in arid regions without unacceptable microbial risk.