Michaelus Tracey is a master cannabis cultivator from Antigua. He carefully examines the plants he grows, and distinguishes varieties by their scent and shape of leaves. Pineapple Road is home to nine different strains of cannabis, all carefully selected for their unique effects and benefits.
Cannabis culture has been a part of the Caribbean for many years. Jamaica legalized medical cannabis in Jamaica a decade before decriminalizing recreational cannabis. Antigua-Barbuda was next in 2018. Several other countries have also introduced legislation for medicinal and cultivation use.
Legal cannabis farms and dispensaries are now available to both local residents and medical tourists. Experts like Professor Rose-Marie Belle Antoine, however, argue for further regulation and legalization. Antigua’s research will examine cannabis potential to alleviate cancer side effects, improve soil health.
US policy shifts could increase Caribbean exports. Alexandra Chong of Jamaica’s Jacana notes that White House decision to move cannabis to Schedule 3 from Schedule 1 could have an impact on Caribbean regulations. US law still limits domestic cannabis export.
In spite of legalization, the high cost and stringent medical requirements has left a large portion of the market in illegal hands. Over 800,000 Jamaicans use cannabis every year, and 90 percent of it comes through illicit channels. Private companies in Antigua are facing competition from illegal imports that are cheaper. The authorities are working to address this problem with education programs that help illegal growers move from their current business model into a legal one.
Social justice is advanced by liberalization. Antigua apologized for the persecution of Rastafarians and has now granted sacramental cultivating rights. To restore dignity in affected communities, plans are being made to erase minor cannabis convictions.
Workers at Pineapple Road carefully roll joints by hand for their dispensary. Leaders in the Caribbean insist on keeping the industry local and using its favorable climate to make it competitive internationally. It is not the goal to recreate Amsterdam, but rather to concentrate on economic growth, wellness and medicinal benefits.
