Welcome to the latest edition of “Last Week In Weed,” catching you up on the latest breaking news and industry developments in the world of cannabis.
Here’s what you may have missed over the last week:
The World Cup Arrives in Legal Cannabis Markets
The upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup promises to be a historic event for the cannabis industry. This impressive tournament will be the first World Cup hosted in countries with legal cannabis markets, offering new avenues for tourism and retail. Operators in both the United States and Canada are gearing up for a significant wave of visitors, all while navigating the intricate marketing laws that govern the cannabis sector.
Industry leaders see this global event as a prime opportunity to introduce international audiences to the experiences available in legal retail. It showcases the remarkable evolution of regulated markets and emphasizes responsible and enjoyable cannabis consumption.
CBD and CBG Show Promise for Fatty Liver Disease
New findings from researchers at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem reveal promising evidence that cannabinoids, specifically CBD and CBG, may play a role in addressing metabolic dysfunction tied to fatty liver disease. According to a report by Food & Wine, preclinical studies show these compounds possess anti-inflammatory properties and are linked to improved health markers relevant to this condition.
While further human-based studies are necessary to validate these findings, the research contributes to the burgeoning scientific interest in leveraging cannabinoids as potential treatment options for chronic inflammatory conditions and metabolic disorders.
Congress Seeks Military Psychedelics Report
In a significant legislative move, federal lawmakers have initiated a proposal requiring the Department of Defense to investigate how psychedelic mushrooms might benefit U.S. military personnel. This legislation aims to produce a comprehensive report assessing current research and the therapeutic potential, particularly for military service members dealing with traumatic brain injuries, post-traumatic stress, and related afflictions.
This growing momentum around psychedelics reflects a broader shift in governmental attitudes towards mental health care, exploring innovative solutions for veteran support.
Read more: Madison Hernandez Is Mapping the Future of Cannabis – Cannabis & Tech Today
Thailand Weighs New Restrictions
Thailand’s cannabis sector is at a crossroads, as Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra issued a warning that her administration might impose stringent regulations following reports that Thai cannabis exports are linked to a spike in international smuggling activities.
This announcement brings new levels of uncertainty to businesses operating within one of Asia’s fastest-growing cannabis markets. It underscores the ongoing challenges governments face in shaping effective regulatory frameworks in the wake of rapid market expansions.
RYTHM Celebrates 7/10 With a One-of-a-Kind Glass Collaboration
As enthusiasts gear up for the 7/10 celebration, RYTHM has collaborated with the prestigious glass artist collective Mothership for a promotion that’s set to stand out. Through a special sweepstakes, one lucky winner and a guest will earn a VIP trip to Chicago to unveil a custom $25,000 dab rig during an exclusive event at the RISE Mundelein consumption lounge.
Data from Headset indicates that concentrates generate nearly $1 billion in annual sales across the U.S., marking 7/10 as one of the category’s highlight celebrations. This collaboration illustrates how brands are enthusiastically investing in unique experiences, collectible art, and community-driven events that engage consumers on a deeper level beyond mere product purchases.