What to Expect for the Cannabis Industry in 2024 - HØJ

What to Expect for the Cannabis Industry in 2024: Market Insights & Forecasts

|

Time to read 7 min

As we start the year of 2024, the cannabis industry stands at a pivotal juncture, brimming with anticipation for the exciting prospects and anticipated developments that lie ahead this year.

The cannabis market, poised for continued growth in the coming year, is set to witness a dynamic transformation driven by increasing legalization, expanding consumer adoption, and groundbreaking advancements in product innovation. 


To effectively navigate this rapidly evolving landscape, it is essential to delve into the market's underlying dynamics, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the key trends and emerging forces shaping its trajectory.

What Is the Current Cannabis Industry Landscape?


The global cannabis industry market, encompassing both recreational and medical cannabis, is projected to reach a staggering value of $103.9 billion by 2024, according to Prohibition Partners. This remarkable growth is fueled by a myriad of factors, including increasing legalization, growing consumer awareness, product innovation and diversification, and investment boosts.


Regulatory Landscape


The regulatory landscape surrounding cannabis is constantly evolving, with varying degrees of legalization and restrictions across different regions. Countries like Canada and Uruguay have fully legalized cannabis for recreational use, while others have legalized it for medical purposes only. In the United States, cannabis remains federally illegal, but individual states have adopted their own legalization policies.


Despite the patchwork of regulations, the overall trend is towards increased legalization and regulation of the cannabis industry. This provides greater clarity and certainty for businesses operating in the sector while ensuring consumer safety and responsible production practices.


Geographic Distribution


The global cannabis market is concentrated in North America, with the United States, Canada, and Mexico being the dominant players. However, other regions, such as Europe, Latin America, and Asia Pacific, are also experiencing significant growth, driven by local legalization efforts and increasing consumer demand.

Man smelling a cannabis plant
Man smelling a cannabis plant (Envato)​​

What Are the Driving Forces of the Cannabis Market Growth?


The cannabis market is poised for continued growth in the coming years, driven by a multitude of factors that are shaping its trajectory and expanding its consumer base. Among the key driving forces propelling the industry's ascent are:

Increasing Legalization


The ongoing legalization of cannabis for both recreational and medical purposes is a prime catalyst for market growth. As more countries and regions embrace legalization, the legal market expands, creating new opportunities for businesses and consumers alike. This expanded access fuels demand and opens up new avenues for product development and innovation.


Growing Consumer Awareness


Public perception of cannabis is undergoing a significant shift, with increasing awareness of its potential therapeutic benefits and recreational appeal. Consumers are becoming more educated about the diverse applications of cannabis, fostering greater acceptance and driving demand for both medical and recreational products


Product Innovation & Diversification


The cannabis industry is witnessing a surge in product innovation, with a diverse range of products emerging to cater to a wider range of consumer preferences. Edible products, beverages, topicals, and infused products are gaining popularity, providing consumers with more options and expanding the market's reach. Great examples of innovative products are KØL and KLIP, by HØJ.


Investment Boost


The cannabis industry is attracting significant investment from venture capitalists, private equity firms, and institutional investors. This influx of capital is fueling growth and expansion, supporting research and development, and enabling companies to scale their operations to meet growing demand.


Expanding Medical Applications


Research into the therapeutic potential of cannabis is expanding rapidly, revealing promising applications for a variety of medical conditions. The growing body of evidence supporting the efficacy of cannabis in treating pain, anxiety, epilepsy, and other ailments is driving demand for medical cannabis products.


Changing Consumer Demographics


The legalization of cannabis is attracting a new generation of consumers who are more open to its use and view it as a viable alternative to traditional pharmaceuticals or recreational substances. This younger demographic is contributing to the market's growth and influencing product development trends.


Rise of Cannabidiol (CBD) Products


CBD, a non-psychoactive compound derived from cannabis, is gaining popularity due to its perceived health benefits. CBD products, such as oils, tinctures, and topicals, are becoming increasingly mainstream, catering to a wide range of consumers seeking wellness and relaxation.


These driving forces are collectively transforming the cannabis market into a dynamic and rapidly expanding industry with promising prospects for continued growth and innovation.


Emerging Trends and Innovations In the Cannabis Industry


The cannabis industry is constantly evolving as new technologies, product innovations, and consumer preferences emerge. Here are some of the key trends and innovations shaping the future of the cannabis market:


Precision Cultivation & Processing Techniques


Cannabis cultivators and processors are adopting advanced technologies and precision techniques to optimize plant growth, enhance product quality, and increase efficiency. These techniques include automated irrigation systems, controlled environment agriculture (CEA) facilities, and innovative extraction methods.


Personalized Product Formulations


The cannabis industry is moving towards personalized product formulations that cater to individual consumer needs and preferences. This trend is driven by advancements in cannabis science and a growing understanding of the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Companies are developing targeted products based on factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and specific health conditions.


Cannabinoid Combinations and Entourage Effect


Research is demonstrating the potential benefits of combining different cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, to achieve synergistic effects. This concept, known as the entourage effect, is leading to the development of multi-cannabinoid products that may offer more targeted and effective therapeutic outcomes.


Woman cutting cannabis buds
Woman cutting cannabis buds (Envato)​​
Woman holding a cannabis plant
Woman holding a cannabis plant (Envato)

Cannabis-Infused Food & Beverages


Cannabis-infused food and beverages are gaining popularity among consumers seeking a more discreet and convenient way to consume cannabis. These products are catering to a wider audience, including those who may not be comfortable smoking or using traditional methods.


Cannabis in Healthcare & Wellness


The therapeutic potential of cannabis is being explored for a wide range of medical conditions, including pain management, anxiety relief, epilepsy treatment, and cancer therapy. Additionally, cannabis is gaining traction in the wellness sector, with products targeting relaxation, sleep enhancement, and mood improvement.


Cannabis Tourism


Cannabis tourism is emerging as a new niche market, attracting travelers seeking recreational cannabis experiences and opportunities to learn about cannabis culture. Destination dispensaries, cannabis-themed events, and specialized lodging options are catering to this growing segment of tourism.


Cannabis Technology & Software Solutions


Technology is playing an increasingly important role in the cannabis industry, with software solutions for cultivation management, inventory tracking, e-commerce platforms, and consumer education gaining traction. These technologies are streamlining operations, enhancing compliance, and improving consumer experiences.


And the Cannabis Industry Forecast for 2024 is...

The global cannabis industry market is expected to witness continued growth in 2024, reaching an estimated value of $72 billion, according to New Frontier Data.


Recreational Cannabis

The recreational cannabis market is projected to account for the largest share of the global cannabis market in 2024, reaching a value of approximately $45 billion. This growth is fueled by the legalization of recreational cannabis in more countries and states, coupled with increasing consumer acceptance and demand for recreational products.


Medical Cannabis

The medical cannabis market is expected to experience significant growth in 2024, reaching a value of around $22 billion. This growth is driven by growing research supporting the therapeutic benefits of cannabis for various medical conditions and expanding access to medical cannabis programs.


Cannabidiol (CBD) Products

The CBD market is projected to remain a dynamic segment of the cannabis industry in 2024, reaching a value of approximately $5 billion. This growth is fueled by the rising popularity of CBD products among consumers seeking natural wellness solutions and their perceived benefits for various health concerns.


Geographic Distribution

North America is expected to remain the dominant region in the global cannabis market in 2024, with the United States, Canada, and Mexico accounting for the majority of sales. However, other regions, such as Europe, Latin America, and Asia Pacific, are also projected to experience significant growth, driven by local legalization efforts and increasing consumer demand.


Key Players

Major players in the cannabis industry are expected to continue expanding their market share and influence in 2024. These players are investing heavily in research and development, product innovation, and strategic partnerships to stay ahead of the competition and capitalize on emerging market opportunities.


Major players in the cannabis industry are expected to continue expanding their market share and influence in 2024. These players are investing heavily in research and development, product innovation, and strategic partnerships to stay ahead of the competition and capitalize on emerging market opportunities.


Regulatory Outlook

The regulatory landscape surrounding cannabis is expected to evolve further in 2024, with more countries and states considering or implementing legalization measures. This regulatory clarity and stability will play a crucial role in fostering market growth and investor confidence.


Overall, the cannabis market is poised for continued expansion and innovation in 2024. With increasing legalization, growing consumer acceptance, and technological advancements, the industry is expected to witness significant growth and diversification, creating new opportunities for businesses and consumers alike.


Simon Folmann
Simon V. Folmann

Simon Folmann

Simon is an accomplished entrepreneur and inventor in the cannabis industry. He’s the founder and CEO of HØJ; a revolutionary high-end cannabis accessories company. His mission is to change the way we experience the herb and enhance people’s smoking experience through knowledge and unique products.

Simon's LinkedIn

Edited by Chicken Joe

Leave a comment