On December 20, 2018, the U.S. Federal Government authorized the removal of hemp from the Schedule I controlled substances list, converting it into an ordinary agricultural commodity overnight. As such, the country’s already seeing evidence of the range of hemp-derived CBD products that are set to take the industry by storm in 2019. What’s particularly interesting, however, is the opportunity that this change to federal law presents to the long list of already established US cannabis brands; those that have, up until now, focused on growing flower and manufacturing a THC-strong experience.

Technically, hemp is a variety of the cannabis plant. It contains less than 0.3% of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis famous for getting you high. Derivatives of hemp have historically been used to create everything from textiles to medicines. But over the past couple of years, it’s become more and more available in the trendy form known as cannabidiol (CBD), an ingredient that’s said to alleviate pain, depression, and a whole host of other health concerns.

In a nutshell, if you own a cannabis brand and you sell cannabis products with high levels of THC, or you grow your own flower, then you’re required to comply with state laws and you can only sell your products or flower in the state you’re licensed in. Cannabis products that contain more than 0.3% of THC are governed by distribution regulations, which means they can only be sold via legalized distribution companies and dispensaries. Rigorous marketing regulations are also in force and brands must comply with the packaging requirements determined by each state.

This means that, up until now, it’s been impossible for regular cannabis brands to connect with consumers across the country and to grow brand awareness on a national level. But now that hemp-derived CBD is nothing more than an agricultural commodity in the eyes of the law, things are different. There’s an opportunity for established cannabis brands to create a subsidiary CBD product line, sell it, and market it all over the US, and to build national awareness of their brands as a result. Cool, right? Let’s get into the details…

With the passing of the Hemp Farming Act of 2018, one of the most appealing reasons for creating a hemp-derived CBD product line is that brands don’t need a licence to sell, manufacture, or distribute. They can work directly with mainstream retailers in the non-regulated market, and they can sell their products to anyone, in any state. It’s this exciting invitation to market and sell nationally, without so many restrictions, that gives established cannabis brands the authorization and advertising bandwidth they need to build brand awareness on a grand scale. While continuing to sell THC-strong cannabis products within state lines, these brands can establish a national reputation by marketing their hemp-derived CBD products across the country.

When it comes to the law, let’s get one thing straight. To successfully create, brand, and then market a CBD product line, all products featured must contain less than 0.3% of THC and they must be made from hemp. It’s also important to note that the legal aspects of the cannabis/hemp industry continue to change like the wind, making it a little overwhelming for smaller brands to keep on top of legal developments. This is why it’s a good idea to build and market your brand with the help of an industry specialist and to even establish a strong working relationship with a qualified, experienced cannabis lawyer as well.

Having said that, if the idea of a hemp-derived CBD product line appeals, how do you get started?