The Italian Organization UCI Is Considering Launching a Project on Industrial Hemp for the Production of Textiles, Construction Materials, and Pharmaceutical Products
Azamat Kozhanov and Madiyar Sultanbek, Deputy Chairmen of the Management Board of "NC "KAZAKH INVEST" JSC, held an online meeting with Mario Serpillo, President of the Italian agricultural organization Unione Coltivatori Italiani (UCI) in Astana.
During the meeting, the parties discussed the possibility of implementing an investment project in Kazakhstan focused on the cultivation and advanced processing of industrial hemp for the subsequent production of textiles, construction materials, and pharmaceuticals using modern agrotechnologies.
The Italian side presented UCI’s successful experience in this sector in Italy. Special emphasis was placed on sustainable farming technologies, the creation of closed-loop production chains (including the production of oil, fibers, and biomaterials), certification and licensing systems, as well as collaboration with specialized research institutions in the fields of medicine, cosmetology, textiles, and construction materials.
The Kazakh side emphasized its interest in international cooperation and highlighted the high potential of the industrial hemp sector for diversifying the agro-industrial complex, particularly in areas such as pharmaceuticals, bioenergy, and light industry.
The project envisions a phased development of agrotechnologies on land plots of up to 100 hectares in various regions of the country, followed by subsequent scaling up. The plan involves using industrial hemp varieties that comply with international standards for tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content—no more than 0.3%—which excludes the plant’s psychoactive properties and classifies it as industrial raw material.
As a result of the meeting, the parties agreed to organize a visit of the UCI delegation to Kazakhstan. During the upcoming visit, meetings are planned with representatives of authorized government bodies, development institutions, as well as the selection of a potential region for the project launch.
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Unione Coltivatori Italiani (UCI) is one of the oldest and most respected professional agricultural organizations in Italy, founded in the 1920s. It unites over 300,000 members, including farmers, agripreneurs, and agricultural processors. The organization actively participates in shaping agricultural policy in Italy and the EU, implements innovations in agriculture, and carries out international projects aimed at sustainable development and food security.
