Hemp, or the Cannabis Sativa, is also called industrial hemp. There are various products derived from hemp cultivation, including its fiber, edible seeds, delta 8 THC products, etc.

Hemp has been cultivated on our planet since ancient times. The earliest record of hemp farming dates back to 8000 BCE. It is an exceptionally versatile crop and can grow in a variety of conditions. Its growth is promoted by sunlight and warm temperatures. The crop requires an average rainfall of 600 mm.

Since the federal legalization of hemp in the United States, its cultivation has also increased. Today the US ranks among the highest hemp-producing countries in the world. On gaining legal protection, the hemp and hemp-based product market has grown considerably, and it has contributed to the increase in the country’s GDP.

Below are some of the largest hemp-producing countries of the world, according to their ranks.

Top Hemp Producing Areas of the World

Number 1 in Hemp Production: China

The top hemp-producing country in the world is China. It cultivates hemp on 225000 acres of land. Chinese have been growing hemp for over three hundred years. The primary purpose of the production of hemp in China was to acquire hemp fiber. After World War II, hemp proved to be a survival crop and saved many Chinese people living in the country’s northern areas from starving.

The boom of hemp cultivation in China is the support of the Chinese government on its production. China never banned the controversial crop. On the contrary, it encouraged hemp cultivation for its industrial usage even when it was strictly prohibited in the United States.

The hemp plant is beneficial in periods of famine. 40% of hemp produced in China is exported to other countries, while the rest is roasted for domestic oil and snacks.

Number 2 in Hemp Production: Canada

Between 2016 and 2017, there was an 80 percent increase in hemp production in Canada, making it the second-largest hemp producer globally. Hemp is cultivated on 140000 acres of land in Canada.

The chief purpose for Hemp production in Canada is the extraction of its seed for hemp oil and hemp protein powders. However, hemp growth in Canada exceeds its hemp requirements, due to which the prices decreased, causing a decline in further cultivation. Work is in the process of balancing the output with hemp demand. Therefore further reduction is possible in hemp cultivation in the coming years.

Number 3 in Hemp Production: The United States of America

Recently, the United States has succeeded in increasing hemp cultivation to rise to third place in hemp-producing countries of the world. The drastic increase was seen after the Farm Bill of 2018, and a steady rise is expected in hemp production.

The primary purpose of hemp production in the United States is the supply of CBD. CBD and its various other products have increased demand in the American market due to its therapeutic properties. Hemp products are also used in fabric, textiles and are also imported.

The United States fell behind China and Canada due to the legal restriction on hemp and cannabis production.

Number 4 in Hemp Production: France

France is the leading European Country in the production of hemp and the fourth-largest producer in the world. France has a history of cultivating hemp since ancient Neolithic times as it grows naturally throughout the country. France uses hemp for animal bedding, textiles, and nautical applications.

The rise in the Cotton industry brought a decline in hemp farming to the point of extinction. However, the industry was brought back to revival in the 1960s.

Number 5 in Hemp Production: Chile

Chile has strange rules regarding the farming of cannabis. It is considered illegal to cultivate and use it in public on a commercial level. However, private agriculture and consumption are allowed, and many citizens take advantage of this situation.

Hemp cultivation in Chile dates back to the mid 15th century. The primary purpose of hemp cultivation is army support and shipping. In addition, it is also used for the production of hemp seed oil.

Number 6 in Hemp Production: North Korea

Hemp has played an important role in the history of North Korea. In ancient times, North Koreans used hemp fiber to weave it into a ‘sambe’ fabric used for funeral clothing. In addition, the country cultivates hemp for its industrial uses.

Also, the cannabis production and farming laws aren’t strict in North Korea as in its surrounding countries, which facilitated its production. Although its cultivation and industrial use are allowed in North Korea, smoking hemp is punishable by death in Korean Law.

Conclusion

Recent research showing evidence of the benefits of hemp consumption in various diseases like epilepsy has resulted in a mindset shift for hemp. The plant was previously perceived as evil, but now many counties are easing its cultivation and usage restrictions. This has led to an increase in the farming of hemp in many countries around the world. However, the statistics are still expected to rise as demand increases worldwide.