Hemp in New Zealand: Policy, Markets and the Long Game

Industrial hemp has been developing quietly in New Zealand for more than two decades. In this episode, we're talking with Richard Barge, treasurer of the New Zealand Hemp Industries Association, about how the sector has evolved — from early government trials in the early 2000s to a growing network of farmers, seed processors, fiber decortication facilities and researchers exploring hemp's role in the bio-economy. Barge explains how New Zealand's hemp industry has taken a deliberate approach to growth, scaling carefully as markets develop rather than chasing acreage without demand. The conversation explores the country's regulatory framework, including the long-standing Industrial Hemp Regulations under the Misuse of Drugs Act and the policy changes now underway that could allow farmers to grow industrial hemp without a license. Other topics discussed: • Hemp seed foods and New Zealand's export-oriented agriculture • The emergence of fiber processing and hempcrete construction • Challenges around feeding hemp by-products to livestock • The role of research institutions and universities in developing new hemp materials • Opportunities for international collaboration and seed production across hemispheres Barge also describes the current supply chain in New Zealand, including seed processing, decortication capacity and companies working to introduce hemp into textiles, building materials and consumer products. Learn More: New Zealand Hemp Industries Association https://www.linkedin.com/company/nzhia/ Midlands Seed HempNZ Hemp Central Hemp Connect Kathmandu Zespri Oregon State University Global Hemp Innovation Center Hemp Today Thanks to Our Sponsors! IND Hemp Americhanvre Cast Hemp