ACI launches support service for new entrants to UK and EU markets

08-Dec-2023 - Last updated on 08-Dec-2023 at 11:08 GMT

The Association for the Cannabinoid Industry (ACI) has launched Green Bridge Gateway, a network of service providers offering expertise in cannabinoids to assist organisations based outside the UK and EU to enter one or both markets.

The service has been developed by the ACI together with key industry stakeholders. These include the regulatory and quality compliance consultancy Global Regulatory Services (GRS), UK-based development and regulatory laboratory ADSL, B2B intermediary for medical cannabis and consumer cannabinoid international supply chains Shweed, and Texas-based chemical data management platform Chem ID.

The collaboration promises to provide expertise in manufacturing and processes, cloud-based technology, marketing, regulatory affairs, and quality compliance.

Commenting on the launch, the founder of the ACI Steve Moore, said: “Green Bridge Gateway provides a unique range of services which will enable legal cannabis companies across the globe to secure market entry to the UK and EU.

"This unique partnership will provide expert guidance to help any business with ambitions to expand into one or both territories, with the confidence that every regulatory requirement will be met," he explained.

Mark Bowes Cavanagh, CEO of ADSL added: “We have been working closely with ACI for the past four years, being very successful in novel food applications. We are very excited to be part of the Green Bridge Gateway ecosystem, helping customers navigate the complex CBD world, changing regulations, data review and testing requirements. We guide our clients every step of the way.”

Industry challenges

There have been substantial complications for CBD companies within the UK market over recent months. Product innovation has remained at a standstill due to delays in the novel foods regulatory procedure, whilst recent drops in the daily recommendations of THC caused significant panic across the industry.

Rising expenses due to the cost-of-living crisis have added further challenges, with Moore previously emphasising that the industry is struggling to survive with many brands and investors losing trust in the market.

The Green Bridge Gateway service has been developed in the face of these challenges, providing guidance for those first entering the UK and EU medical and consumer cannabinoid markets.

The new service aims to advise on an array of areas including analytical testing, new product development, chemical data management, supply chain management, and business development guidance.

Moore says there is a definite need for such a service in the complex marketplace. He told NutraIngredients: “Market entry presents a range of services that no single organisation can provide. This service will make the process of compliant market entry frictionless,” he stressed.

Greer Deal, co-founder and director of GRS, added: “The development of cannabis and its extracts for health and wellness falls within the scope of a number of different authorities, so it’s no wonder that companies with a vast product portfolio find it a challenge to be compliant with all the requirements.

“This initiative is a much-needed alliance of companies offering diverse expertise to address and overcome the complexities of this sector. I’m delighted that GRS is part of this initiative which is a great example of what can be achieved through collaboration,” he added.

Alex Andrawes, CEO of Chem ID: “I wholeheartedly support Green Bridge Gateway’s commendable efforts in championing cannabis-derived CBD traceability and transparency as the UK emerges from the dark days of prohibition. This dedication to ensuring the integrity of CBD products destined for the UK and EU markets is vital for consumer trust and safety.”