Introduction: Planning to Export Cannabis? Start Here.
If you’re exploring cannabis export from Canada in 2025, you're not alone—and you're not too early. With international medical markets expanding and Canada’s domestic market tightening, exporting is becoming a viable and strategic path forward.
At our recent Elevated Signals webinar, we were joined by a panel of seasoned experts who’ve been deep in the trenches of global cannabis sales:
- Alexandre Gauthier, VP of R&D, Origin Nature
- Kyle Tomkins, EU-GMP Ops & Packaging Consultant
- Veronica Hayter, Director of Operations, Canadian Cannabis Exchange
- Austin Bell, Host & Customer Success Manager, Elevated Signals
They shared real-world, tactical advice for Canadian LPs: on certification, export readiness, partner selection, and mistakes to avoid.
If you’re planning to export in the near term, here’s exactly what you need to know.
Read below or watch the replay here:
1. Don’t Wait to Get GACP Certified
Your first move: Get GACP certification—immediately.
“If you’re an LP in Canada and not already GACP, why are you even playing?” – Alex Gauthier, Origin Nature
Many LPs are already operating at GACP-level without realizing it. Certifying opens doors, even if you’re not shipping yet.
Why it matters:
- Required by many international buyers
- Helps secure LOIs or buyer interest
- Enables you to pivot fast when opportunities appear
2. Start Small and Learn the Process
Plan your first shipment as a learning experience, not a cash cow.
“Think of your first 50kg as R&D. If you can’t afford to lose it, you’re not ready.” – Alex Gauthier
- Start with 50–100kg max
- Prove your consistency and reliability
- Avoid consignment deals or unstructured agreements
3. Specialize and Stick to What You Do Best
Focus your export model around your operational strengths.
“Don’t try to own the entire supply chain unless you're built for it.” – Kyle Tomkins
Examples of specialization:
- Growers → Partner with GMP-certified packagers
- Processors → Source GACP flower
- Brokers → Handle compliance and deal structuring
4. Choose the Right Markets and the Right Partners
Not all markets—or buyers—are created equal.
“We get calls every day from people saying they’re the next big importer. Vet everyone.” – Veronica Hayter
Promising markets in 2025:
- Germany – Mature and high demand, but competitive
- UK – Slower, but growing
- Poland & Switzerland – Emerging, with strong interest
- Australia – Now requires GMP, but still accessible
What to avoid:
- Overpromised volumes
- Buyers with no track record
- Vague timelines or no regulatory clarity
5. Nail Down Supply Planning and Consistency
Export success depends on stable cultivation and repeatability.
“Pharmacists need the same product every time. No room for surprises.” – Veronica Hayter
Before designating product for export:
- Use a cultivar you already grow well
- Have backups in case of delays
- Be ready for audits and site visits
6. Be Real About Timelines and Cash Flow
Export takes 6–18 months to ramp up. Plan accordingly.
“Even when demand is real, paperwork delays everything.” – Kyle Tomkins
Expect:
- 30–60 days for import/export permits
- Extensive QA and regulatory steps
- Possible deal fall-throughs or shipment rejections
Have domestic B2B or retail outlets ready for fallback.
7. Protect Yourself with Solid Agreements
No verbal deals. Use airtight contracts.
“Excitement over a big order won’t protect you legally.” – Veronica Hayter
Include:
- Payment terms (e.g. net 30/60 or deposit structures)
- Escrow options for new buyers
- Detailed QA, shipping, and testing requirements
8. Know When (and When Not) to Push Your Brand
Lead with product quality—not logos.
“Brands don’t carry weight in new markets. Quality and consistency do.” – Alex Gauthier
Most international buyers want white-label product. You can revisit branding once you’ve built a solid reputation and proven performance.
Final Word: Export is a Long Game—Start Smart
Exporting cannabis from Canada in 2025 is a real growth path—but only for those who prepare and execute thoughtfully.
Here’s your punch list:
✅ Get GACP
✅ Choose your lane
✅ Start small
✅ Vet buyers
✅ Protect yourself
✅ Be flexible
✅ Stay consistent
✅ Ask for help
“The only real mistake? Not trying. Canada is respected for quality—we should be owning these markets.” – Alex Gauthier
