Rubisco CEO Statement on Hemp Reform
Today’s announcement marks a meaningful shift for New Zealand’s industrial hemp sector. The updated regulations provide growers and processors with a clearer, more practical operating environment and recognise the material’s contribution to a low-carbon, high-value economy. The removal of licensing, the adoption of a defined sub-1% THC threshold, and clearer pathways for whole-plant utilisation create a more workable foundation for industry growth.
These changes give the sector greater confidence to plan, invest, and build capability across food, fibre, construction materials, wellness, and advanced manufacturing. They also support more stable and consistent supply chain development. This is essential as demand for natural, high-performance materials continues to rise.
For Rubisco, the opportunity is immediate and aligned with our long-term strategy. These reforms support our growth plans and reinforce hemp’s role as a core feedstock for the high-performance, nature-positive materials we are scaling in New Zealand. Our platform spans apparel fibres, interior acoustics, geotextiles, engineered biomaterials, and regenerative construction systems, and the clearer regulatory environment strengthens the foundation we are building.
Industrial hemp remains one of the most versatile and low-carbon fibres available. With the updated rules providing greater operational certainty, Rubisco will continue expanding its fibre processing capability, deepening partnerships with growers, and accelerating product innovation for both New Zealand and international markets.
We see this as an important step toward establishing New Zealand as a leader in natural fibre manufacturing and circular material systems. Rubisco will continue working alongside growers, research organisations, and industry partners to unlock the full potential of hemp-based materials and deliver high-value products that support regional development and global sustainability goals.
Warm regards,
Guy Wills,
CEO
P: +(03) 358 5015
E: [email protected]
