Global Medical Cannabis Market, by Oral, 2018-2027

Growth Outlook

• The 2027 portion of the Global Medical Cannabis Market, by Oral, 2018 market is on a steady long-term growth path. Segment value stands at roughly USD 7894 Mn in 2026 and is projected to reach USD 9123 Mn by 2027 — a gain of about 16% over the forecast period, translating to a CAGR in the double digits.
• The global medical cannabis market is experiencing a surge in demand, driven by the growing recognition of its potential therapeutic benefits. Medical cannabis, also known as medical marijuana, is the use of cannabis for medicinal purposes.
• What the regional split looks like (2026): Americas leads, holding roughly 73% of segment value — the single largest regional share. Europe is the second-largest contributor. Asia-Pacific and Middle East & Africa make up the remainder, in descending order.
• By 2027, Americas alone is expected to reach USD 6407 Mn, with Europe at USD 2016 Mn.

Market Dynamics

The global medical cannabis market is experiencing a surge in demand, driven by the growing recognition of its potential therapeutic benefits. Medical cannabis, also known as medical marijuana, is the use of cannabis for medicinal purposes. It is derived from the cannabis plant and is used to treat a variety of conditions and diseases such as chronic pain, epilepsy, cancer, and HIV/AIDS. One of the major drivers of the demand for medical cannabis is the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases. According to the World Health Organization, chronic diseases are the leading cause of death globally, with around 71% of all deaths being attributed to these conditions. As a result, there is a rising demand for effective and affordable treatment options, leading to the popularity of medical cannabis. Moreover, the growing acceptance and legalization of medical cannabis across the globe is also contributing to the demand. In recent years, there has been a significant shift in attitudes towards medical cannabis, with many countries legalizing its use for medical purposes. This has created opportunities for companies to enter the market and meet the growing demand for medical cannabis products.

One of the most popular forms of medical cannabis is oral ingestion, which involves consuming the cannabis in the form of capsules, tablets, or oils. This method of consumption is preferred by many patients as it is discreet, convenient, and does not involve smoking. Additionally, oral ingestion allows for precise dosing, making it more suitable for medical use. The demand for medical cannabis through oral ingestion is also driven by the increasing availability of different types of cannabis-based products. Pharmaceutical companies have been investing in the research and development of new cannabis-based medicines, resulting in a wider range of options for patients. This has further fueled the demand for medical cannabis by oral ingestion, as patients now have access to more effective and specialized treatments. However, despite the growing demand for medical cannabis, there are still regulatory barriers and stigma surrounding its use that hinder the market's growth. Many countries have strict laws and regulations around the cultivation, production, and distribution of medical cannabis, making it challenging for patients to access these treatments. Moreover, there is still a lack of understanding and acceptance of medical cannabis, leading to social stigma and barriers to its adoption.

In conclusion, the global medical cannabis market is experiencing a rise in demand, particularly for oral ingestion. This can be attributed to the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, the growing acceptance and legalization of medical cannabis, and the availability of various cannabis-based products. However, there are still challenges that need to be addressed for the market to reach its full potential and meet the growing demand for medical cannabis.

Research Methodology

Figures reflect Wantstats’ original market research and forecasting models, compiled as part of the Wantstats research archive and published in 2024.