The U.S. Department of Justice announces measures to reclassify marijuana, driven by Donald Trump, which could transform the cannabis industry and access to research.

The Trump administration has taken a significant step in relaxing drug policy, announcing measures to reclassify marijuana through the Department of Justice. Although the measure does not fully legalize marijuana at the federal level, it could radically transform the cannabis industry, valued at approximately $47 billion, which has faced obstacles regarding taxation and access to funding. State-regulated marijuana products will be moved from the category of extremely dangerous substances to a more permissive category, alongside drugs with moderate abuse potential. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche stated that authorities will accelerate the reclassification process for all uses of the plant. The measure, which follows an executive order from President Trump, is expected to reduce barriers for research and facilitate companies' access to funding. Companies like Tilray Brands and Canopy Growth could benefit from this decision. Although stocks of companies in the sector initially rose, investors reacted cautiously to the short-term impact. Currently, marijuana is legalized for recreational use in 24 states and for medical purposes in 40 states, and authorities will begin official procedures for collecting evidence regarding reclassification on June 29. Critics remain concerned about the risks associated with consumption and public safety.