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Regulatory Changes Unlock Global Export Markets

  • Jul 30, 2024
  • 2 min read

Helius will be able to recognise its global potential with the NZ medicinal cannabis scheme regulatory changes being given the green light by the NZ government in July.

Helius Therapeutics is NZ’s largest producer of medicinal cannabis and has been providing NZ grown, NZ made medicines for the patients of New Zealand since the medicinal cannabis scheme came into effect in October 2021.  It operates a vertically integrated 8,800sqm fully licenced facility in East Tamaki in Auckland where the team are proud to operate world class indoor cultivation facilities, cannabinoid extraction suites and manufacturing and packaging all under one roof.

Sally King, Executive Director of the New Zealand Medicinal Cannabis Council, the industry association representing the sector says: “The amendments are the breakthrough the sector has been waiting for.  It’s the game changer”. 

“The shackles are off.  Our NZ grown products can now start to fulfill their potential” says Ms King.

The changes to the MCS mean that exports now need to meet only the standards of the importing jurisdiction, rather than the New Zealand quality standard. The amendments also streamline the licencing process, update testing and laboratory requirements, improve a range of other matters which reduce costs and time for the sector, whilst still maintaining trusted high standards.

Carmen Doran, CEO of Helius Therapeutics since 2021, is optimistic about the industry’s potential to supply patients around the world.  “Helius was always built for global scale and a fast ramp-up approach, the regulation changes mean we are now able to transition the partnerships we’ve formed around the world into supplying extracts and flower products for patients.” 

Helius holds both Good Agricultural Collection Practices (GACP) and Good Manufacturing Practices Certificates which are recognised in a number of markets around the world including Australia, Europe and South America where demand for high quality, trusted supply chains and unique products are in hot demand, something the company expects to be able to fufill.  Ms Doran adds:  “Medicinal Cannabis hits a sweet spot for us here in NZ, building upon our strong horticultural experience in breeding, genetics and growing consistent high quality crops and combining it with our strong focus on R&D in a healthcare setting.  Being a world-leader in the field of medicinal cannabis is absolutely the goal for the industry!”



 
 
 

32 Comments


Elsa Robertson
Elsa Robertson
4 days ago

This is an interesting read on how regulatory changes can create new opportunities for businesses looking to expand into global markets. Adapting to new standards and understanding international requirements is essential for successful growth. It’s great to see how innovation and preparation can help brands reach wider audiences, just like creative industries use unique products such as a Halloween Jacket to connect with customers worldwide.

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linda WU
linda WU
Jul 09

Whether it's an innovative biotech firm or a vital Crutches Manufacturer expanding internationally, less red tape fosters a stronger global healthcare supply chain.

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flyingents
Jul 07

Exciting news for Helius Therapeutics! The regulatory changes in NZ's medicinal cannabis scheme will surely boost their global export potential. It's fascinating to see how the password game plays a role in such advancements.

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Cato Athena
Cato Athena
Jun 12

The regulatory changes to New Zealand’s medicinal cannabis scheme are a genuine turning point. By aligning exports with the standards of importing countries rather than rigid NZ rules, the sector gains flexibility, reduced costs, and faster access to global markets. For Helius, already equipped with world‑class facilities and GMP certifications, this unlocks the ability to scale internationally and meet rising demand in regions like Europe and South America. Much like Fnaf, where adapting quickly to shifting conditions is the difference between success and failure, these reforms highlight how responsiveness and strategic readiness can transform an industry’s global trajectory.

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Peter Shawn
Peter Shawn
Jun 10

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