Australian Industrial Hemp Alliance has sent a letter to Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority, (APVMA), requesting clarification and reform regarding nutritional products for animal containing hemp.
The APVMA in Australia is an independent statutory body responsible for evaluating and registering proposed agricultural and veterinary chemical products for local distribution. The APVMA has a current position on hemp use in animal feed products.
“.. veterinary pharmaceuticals containing hemp (including cannabis) or cannabinoids (which include marijuana) are chemical products for use in veterinary medicine.”
The APVMA did not register any veterinary chemicals containing hemp at that time. This means all hemp-containing products that are not registered, including treats and nutrition supplements, are illegal.
AHIA has obtained documents under the Freedom of Information Act that reveal APVMA’s regulatory practices which may not be fully in line with their legal obligations. This could negatively affect the Australian hemp sector.
AHIA states that current APVMA regulations have had a negative impact on the industry. This includes stifled development, hindered innovation and missed opportunities.
Hemp agriculture offers significant export potential. Yet regulatory hurdles have restricted farmers and led to rural economic stagnation.
AHIA found a document that indicated the APVMA had suspended enforcement action pending a final determination on November 28th, 2024. AHIA claims that this suspension was not communicated. AHIA claims there is also a discrepancy in the way hemp-based products for animal nutrition are classified in some documents.
Alliance: “The FOI files highlight significant concerns over the APVMA’s regulatory approach towards hemp-based product,” states the Alliance. The Alliance believes that a collaborative approach can result in a framework that is clear and evidence-based to support the growth of hemp while also ensuring that legal obligations are met.
The Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Code Act 1994 Excluded Nutritional or Digestive Products (E.N.D. criteria.
AHIA says: “We think hemp-based product that meet the standards set by APVMA should not be registered, but their classifications are inconsistent.”
The AHIA letter, dated April 9, requests a response in writing within 30 days, detailing the APVMA’s plans to revise the website statement, and the steps taken to clarify enforcement. This includes a timetable for determining the “final determination” on the classification of hemp.