Vapouround Magazine Canada VMC ISSUE 1 | Page 48

FEATURES Growing pains: The future of marijuana and vaping in Canada In times of political change, vaping will find new challenges and opportunities. Businesses must brace for both. By Leo Forfar Since October 17, recreational marijuana is legal in Canada, but key products for a potential THC vaping industry remain blacklisted. Health Canada has omitted edibles and cannabis concentrates from the upcoming legalization. The latter are used in e-cigarettes for consumption via vaping. Health Canada have defended this omission ahead of a one-year period “for the development of specific regulations to address the unique risks posed by these product classes.” Though businesses are, as always, frustrated by the slow and sometimes overcautious pace of reform, they have been eagerly awaiting the date where trade is fully legalized. A boom period is expected, and Canada hopes to become a world leader in the marijuana trade, with first-year sales expected to exceed five billion dollars despite restrictions. It is not surprising to see an extra restraint placed on vaping. But this piece hopes to explore what the regulatory and political landscape will bring on the (inevitable) day legalization comes. Though it will be widely celebrated, business owners and vaping advocates need to be aware that legalization of vaporized marijuana will only be the beginning of its troubles. A new dimension and 48 | VMC