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BERLIN B2B

16-17 April 2024 • Estrel Berlin Hotel

2024 ICBC Berlin B2B Schedule

16-17 April 2024

Tuesday, 16 April 2024

  • 8:45

    ICBC Berlin B2B 2024 Overview

Alex Rogers, Executive Producer of the International Cannabis Business Conference, welcomes conference attendees and provides an overview of the conference schedule, including the panels and speakers that will be providing presentations and interviews. Ngaio Bealum will be the Master of Ceremonies.

Alex Rogers

Alex Rogers

CEO & EXECUTIVE PRODUCER, ICBC

Ngaio Bealum

Ngaio Bealum

CONFERENCE MASTER OF CEREMONIES

  • 9:00

    Keynote Speaker – TBA

  • 9:20

    The European Cannabis Industry

Challenges, Pitfalls and Outlook

Several nations on the European continent are working to update their cannabis policies and regulations to embrace the rising legal cannabis industry, with multiple countries now being home to thriving markets. Internationally renowned cannabis expert Peter Homberg, partner at leading business law firm Dentons, provides an update about current cannabis policy modernization efforts underway in European member states. Homberg will also examine major economic developments in Europe’s emerging legal cannabis industry, as well as some prognostic outlooks on significant legal trends arising from the continent’s cannabis movement.

Peter Homburg

Peter Homberg

PARTNER, DENTONS • HEAD OF EUROPEAN CANNABIS GROUP
  • 10:00

    German Cannabis Policy Modernization Efforts

Evaluating the status of reform efforts in Europe’s largest economy

The German Cannabis Business Association (BvCW e.V.) is once again hosting the political panel discussion with key players from parties in the German Bundestag. The progress of current German cannabis policy modernization efforts will be discussed, including public policies relating to industrial hemp, adult-use cannabis, and medical cannabis. Panelists will examine what is already possible for the nation’s emerging legal cannabis industry as well as what people can expect going forward, including “Pillar 2” of the nation’s proposed adult-use legalization plan. The discussion will be held in German. Simultaneous translation into English will be provided.

Jurgen Neumeyer

Jürgen Neumeyer

MANAGING DIRECTOR OF BRANCHENVERBAND CANNABISWIRTSCHAFT E.V. (BVCW)
  • 10:50

    Cultivation of Medical Cannabis in Germany

A new opportunity for the market?

Kai-Friedrich Niermann

Kai-Friedrich Niermann

FOUNDER, KFN+ LAW OFFICE

MODERATOR
Benedikt Sons

Benedikt Sons

CO-FOUNDER, MANAGING DIRECTOR AND CEO OF CANSATIVA GROUP

Dr. Philipp Goebel

Dr. Philipp Goebel

MARKETING AND SALES EXPERT, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF DEMECAN

Thomas Schatton

Thomas Schatton

FOUNDER AND CEO, FOUR 20 PHARMA

In November 2023, the German government surprisingly decided to lift all restrictions on the cultivation of medicinal cannabis in Germany. In the future, probably from April 1, 2024, the three already licensed growers of medical cannabis in Germany will be able to produce cannabis without quantity and product restrictions. However, any other company that can grow cannabis to pharmaceutical standards can also apply for a license. The panel will discuss what consequences this decision will have for the national and international markets. Will there be a “Green Rush”, similar to 2017 and 2018?

  • 11:30

    Novel Food EU Update

(Not) on the plate: EU’s Dilemma with Cannabinoids and Novel Food
Sita Schubert

Sita Schubert

EUMCA GENERAL SECRETARY

Constant Ma

Constant Ma

FOUNDER, CANNACTIONS CONSULTING LTD.

Ricardo Geada

Ricardo Geada

DIRECTOR REGULATORY SOLUTIONS, LAWRENCE STEPHENS

Delve into the complex world of cannabinoid regulations in foodstuff in the EU. This discussion looks at the implementation and enforcement of regulations pertaining to Cannabinoids in food products, unravelling the diverse approaches adopted by EU member states. Explore the complexity between regional regulations and overarching EU guidelines, shedding light on the disparities within the union. From varied national perspectives to harmonization and authorization attempts within the EU, we will dissect the challenges of establishing novel food status for hemp food ingredients and cannabinoids – including ongoing side challenges with health claims, novel cannabinoids like HHC or 4HCBD and inappropriate marketing. Join us to gain insights into the legal complexities surrounding the risk assessment of cannabinoids, an issue that extends far beyond culinary preferences.

  • 12:00

    Break

  • 13:00

    German Social Clubs

What opportunities exist for Germany’s cannabis club sector?
Frederik Bockslaff

Frederik Bockslaff

FOUNDER & PARTNER, NIMROD RECHTSANWÄLTE

Tarak Badawi

Tarak Badawi

STRATEGIC ACCOUNT MANAGER, STM CANNA PREROLL SOLUTIONS

Stefan Röhrl

Stefan Röhrl

CEO & CO FOUNDER, HEMPGROUP; CSO & CO FOUNDER, LUXORA; BOARD MEMBER, CANNOVUM; PRESIDENT, GUSHI CULTURE CSC

John Slaughter

John Slaughter

CEO, HIGH NORTH

One of the main components of Germany’s adult-use legalization law involves permitting cannabis clubs to operate under certain conditions. Cannabis clubs will largely serve as the primary source for consumers in Germany until regional adult-use pilot programs are launched. Panelists will provide the most current information regarding cannabis club regulations in Germany.

  • 13:40

    Germany as a Cannabis Economic Hub

Delving into the numbers behind Germany’s emerging industry

Delving into the numbers behind Germany’s emerging industry
This session, led by leading cannabis economist Beau Whitney, will examine the economic potential of adult-use cannabis legalization in Germany. The presentation will provide data on the total estimated number of consumers, the Total Addressable Market, job creation potential, potential tax revenue generation, total supply required and the overall economic impact on the German economy. Who needs a pilsner when you can get drunk on data?

Beau Whitney

Beau Whitney

CHIEF ECONOMIST, WHITNEY ECONOMICS
  • 14:10

    Cracking The International Cannabis Logistics Chain Code

Overcoming hurdles with practical strategies

The field of cannabinoid research is advancing, with new discoveries being made about the potential therapeutic benefits of these compounds. However, for these discoveries to be translated into effective treatments for patients, it is essential that proper due diligence is done, and well-designed clinical trials programs are initiated. In this presentation, we will discuss the course, challenges, considerations, and rewards for advancing the cannabinoid scientific research landscape.

Yoram Eshel

Yoram Eshel

CEO, CANNABILOG
  • 14:40

    Developing Effective Medical Cannabis Products

Crafting science-driven medications for evolving patient needs
Dwayne Stewart

Dwayne Stewart

CEO/FOUNDER, KINLOCH NATURALS LTD.

MODERATOR
Tjalling Erkelens

Tjalling Erkelens

FOUNDER & CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD, BEDROCAN

Barinder Bhullar

Barinder Bhullar

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF CORPORATE AFFAIRS, BRAINS BIOCEUTICAL CORP

Kevin Koby

Kevin Koby

CHIEF SCIENCE OFFICER, ABSTRAX TECH

Michael Mayne

Michael Mayne

PRESIDENT AND FOUNDER, REMIDOSE

International cannabis researchers are unlocking more knowledge about the cannabis plant’s wellness capabilities now than at any other time in human history. That research, in turn, is providing valuable insight for scientists and engineers to incorporate science-driven findings into their medical cannabis product development. Panelists will discuss emerging medical cannabis product concepts and trends, and how the evolving needs of patients are helping drive niche product development.

  • 15:20

    Unveiling the Cannabis Plant’s Potential

Exploring the therapeutic applications of cannabinoids
Dr. Markus Roggen

Dr. Markus Roggen

PRESIDENT/CSO, DELIC LABS

Dr. Markus Veit

Dr. Markus Veit

MANAGING DIRECTOR AND FOUNDER, ALPHATOPICS GMBH

Cannabinoid research is one of the most exciting areas of the cannabis science field, with new information being discovered about the potential therapeutic benefits of cannabinoids on a seemingly frequent basis. As we learn more about the cannabinoids that make up the cannabis plant and their unique qualities, research must be conducted with a focus on applying knowledge toward developing wellness products and cannabis therapies for patients. This panel will discuss the unique challenges facing the cannabinoid research field, results from recent research efforts, and what the future may hold for therapeutic applications of cannabinoids.

  • 16:00

    Future Scientific Horizons

Research and development in cannabinoid-based pharmaceuticals
Francesco Bafunno

Francesco Bafunno

EXEC OPERATION DIRECTOR, TRADING FB

Jas Kalsi

Jas Kalsi

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER, , BRAINS BIOCEUTICAL CORP

Justin Tombe

Justin Tombe

COO, THE TALMAN GROUP

We currently live in the most exciting time in human history for cannabis research, thanks in large part to eroding prohibition policies around the world and the emergence of the international medical cannabis industry. Demand for cannabinoid-based pharmaceutical products is greater now than ever before, and with more countries modernizing their cannabis policies to permit the research and development of such products, the future is very bright for the cannabinoid pharmaceutical sector. This panel is dedicated to discussing the future of cannabinoid-based pharmaceutical research and product development.

  • 16:40

    Legacy Cannabis and Modern Cannabis

What lessons from the cannabis industry’s past still resonate today?
Spiros Malandrakis

Spiros Malandrakis

HEAD OF RESEARCH – ALCOHOLIC DRINKS AND CANNABIS, EUROMONITOR INTERNATIONAL

MODERATOR
Marcus Richardson Bubbleman

Marcus “Bubbleman” Richardson

CREATOR OF BUBBLEBAGS AND SOLVENTLESS CONSULTANT

Tyler Kearns

Tyler Kearns

CEO, SEVEN LEAVES AND PRESIDENT, MTG INVESTMENTS

Alex Rogers

Alex Rogers

CEO & EXECUTIVE PRODUCER, ICBC

Božidar Radišic

Božidar Radišic

PROJECT MANAGER AND FOUNDER, RESEARCH NATURE INSTITUTE

The emerging legal cannabis industry is at a historic turning point, with the cannabis movement achieving policy reform victories at a seemingly increasing rate on nearly every continent. With Germany’s Parliament recently approving an adult-use legalization measure, the cannabis industry is guaranteed to evolve at a more rapid pace going forward, particularly in Europe. Legacy operators who possess a wealth of knowledge and experience will play a more vital role than ever in the emerging industry. A panel of representatives from the legacy cannabis industry will discuss the most important lessons that they have learned over the years, and how the modern cannabis industry can benefit from being educated about the industry’s past.

Wednesday, 17 April 2024

  • 10:00

    Advancing The Cannabinoid Scientific Landscape
    Bill Purves, Keynote Speaker

The challenges & rewards for scientific cannabinoid advancement

The field of cannabinoid research is advancing, with new discoveries being made about the potential therapeutic benefits of these compounds. However, for these discoveries to be translated into effective treatments for patients, it is essential that proper due diligence is done, and well-designed clinical trials programs are initiated. In this presentation, we will discuss the course, challenges, considerations, and rewards for advancing the cannabinoid scientific research landscape.

  • The course – why should we care enough to pioneer the scientific research landscape
  • The challenges – why is it only the courageous that pursue this new medical frontier
  • The considerations to minimise risk and inform sound investment decision making
  • The rewards – Is it worth it?
  • Despite the promising potential of cannabinoids, there is still a need for more rigorous scientific research to fully understand their therapeutic benefits.

Discover why the time is right and the time is now.

Bill Purves
Bill Purves
CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER , BRAINS BIOCEUTICAL CORP
  • 10:20

    The Global Cannabis Industry vs. The Regulators

High Hurdles: Regulatory Catch-up on the Licit Cannabis Frontier
Daniel Haymann

Daniel Haymann

ATTORNEY AT LAW, MLL MEYERLUSTENBERGER LACHENAL FRORIEP LTD

Lisa Haag

Lisa Haag

FOUNDER MJ_UNIVERSE

Margret Knitter

Margret Knitter, LL.M.

PARTNER AT GERMAN LAW FIRM SKW SCHWARZ, HEAD OF CANNABIS GROUP

Atiyyah Ferouz

Atiyyah Ferouz

FOUNDER AGCANN AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF INTERNATIONAL CANNABIS QUALITY STANDARDS ASSOCIATION (ICQSA)

What are the biggest regulatory challenges faced by the emerging cannabis industry? In this panel, our experts will provide insight into the interplay between industry growth and regulatory responsiveness, where the lingering echoes of the global war on drugs and the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs pose substantial obstacles. Uncover the influence of corporate interests in shaping regulatory landscapes, complicating the path to effective oversight. A limited number of countries have established regulations for hemp, medicinal cannabis or adult-use cannabis. This creates national bottlenecks and fragmented industries in developing nations and sales markets. This panel will help to understand the dynamic relationship between regulators and the cannabis market, often triggered by legal initiatives from patients and companies. If you are interested in discussing the imperative for proactive regulatory frameworks that not only accommodate evolving industry needs but also foster global harmonization, ensuring a more coherent and responsive environment that also considers corporate social responsibility over corporate capture – this panel is for you.

  • 11:00

    Conventional Industries – Shifting to Food, Pharma and Consumerism

Where is the Green Revolution? Cannabis as an Emerging Commodity in the Agri-industry, in Conventional Pharma, FMCG and Many Industries more…
Giadha A. DeCarcer

Giadha A. DeCarcer

PRINCIPAL, BLUE ONYX HORIZONS; FOUNDER, NEW FRONTIER DATA

MODERATOR
Paul Long

Paul Long

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, LITTLE GREEN PHARMA

Bernie Yeung, MBA

Bernie Yeung

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, ATLAS GLOBAL BRANDS

Susanne Caspar

Susanne Caspar

CEO, LINNEA

Benjamin Patock

Benjamin Patock

INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS, BOVEDA

The panel offers provides an in-depth exploration into the multifaceted and complex dynamics surrounding the emergence of cannabis as a commodity in the agri-industry, conventional pharmaceuticals, and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG). What role does cannabis play as a commodity, as it integrates into established sectors? Our panelists will examine practical challenges and promising opportunities and explore the evolving agricultural practices, the nuanced changes in pharmaceutical approaches, and the shifting dynamics of consumer goods influenced by this green revolution. It is an opportunity to engage in an insightful conversation about the various aspects of cannabis as it gradually establishes itself as a versatile commodity of the future, shaping industries and prompting a reevaluation of traditional norms.

  • 11:40

    Digitalisation – Cannabis Innovation and Technology

Cannatech Catalysts: Digital Innovation, Programmed Automation and Virtual Trends for the Cannabis Industry and Beyond
Jürgen Bickel

Jürgen Bickel

MANAGING DIRECTOR, STORZ & BICKEL

Yogesh Jhamtani

Yogesh Jhamtani

CEO & CO-FOUNDER, BUFFALO EXTRACTION SYSTEMS

Chris Sinacori

Chris Sinacori

CEO, 3WIN CORP

Nicholas Taraborelli

Nicholas Taraborelli

VICE PRESIDENT, PAXIOM AUTOMATION INC.

This panel takes our audience on a journey into the cutting-edge intersection of technology innovation and the cannabis industry. Explore the digital frontiers of technology innovation,
from programmed automation for cultivation or manufacturing to virtual trends in SaaS or Blockchain-Technology that are reshaping the digital and analogue landscape. Join our experts in exploring broader trends in technology and ecommerce, that are setting the pace for industries across the board, but may face specific restrictions due to the nature of our business. Gain insights into the transformative potential of digital innovation within the cannabis sector, and discover how these technological catalysts might influence and inspire innovation in other industries in the future. This panel provides a unique opportunity to explore the relationship between technology and cannabis, offering a glimpse into the evolving future where digital advancements not only redefine the cannabis experience itself, but also pave the way for groundbreaking approaches in diverse sectors beyond.

  • 12:10

    Break

  • 13:00

    The Emergence of Global Cannabis Brands

Originating in Europe vs. Entering from Overseas
Jamie Pearson

Jamie Pearson

INTERNATIONAL CONSULTANT, NEW HOLLAND GROUP

José Manuel López

José Manuel López

LP COMMERCIAL MANAGER EUROPE, ADVANCED NUTRIENTS

Explore with us the dynamic landscape of the cannabis industry, focusing on the emergence of global brands. This panel discusses the unique journey of brands originating from Europe vs. Abroad, understanding the factors that contribute to their rise and success on a global scale. Brands entering the European market from overseas will provide insights by, analyzing the challenges and opportunities they encounter. Our experts will share perspectives on market trends, regulatory considerations, and the cultural nuances influencing the global cannabis brand landscape. This panel unravels the complexities of this evolving industry and discovers the contrasting narratives of brands rooted in Europe versus those making their mark from abroad.

  • 13:40

    Creating Learning Systems & Best Practices for the Global Cannabis Industry

The Cannabis Blueprint: Developing Learning Systems and Accessible Standards for international Markets
Dr. Shawna Vreeke

Dr. Shawna Vreeke

HEAD OF RESEARCH AND TOXICOLOGY, TRUE TERPENES

Deepak Anand

Deepak Anand

PRINCIPAL, ASDA CONSULTANCY SERVICES

Jill Reddish

Jill Reddish

CO-FOUNDER, GLOBAL CANNABIS NETWORK COLLECTIVE

Laura Kaiser

Laura Kaiser

PARTNER MANAGEMENT CONSULTING & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, PBM CONSULT

On this panel, our experts will discuss the importance of developing global learning systems and globally accessible standards for the creation of internationally harmonized markets in the realm of hemp, medicinal cannabis, and recreational use. Explore together with our experts the unique challenges of crafting standards for cannabis, an industry characterized by diverse markets and ever-evolving regulations. This panel addresses the scarcity of knowledge keepers and the availability of developed technologies on a local level, creating urgency to make this expertise accessible on a global scale. In a landscape where no global cannabis standard exists, this panel emphasizes on learning from experiences, acknowledging mistakes, and cultivating best practices that pave the way for global cannabis trade. This panel discusses the ever-present reality of “We don’t know what we don’t know,” as we collectively strive to blueprint a sustainable and standardized future for international cannabis markets.

  • 14:20

    Cannabis Genetics And Breeding

Maximizing the potential of the cannabis plant
Dave Auger

Dave Auger

COMMISSIONER, BIG LEAGUE GENETICS

Matthew Don-Carolis

Matthew Don-Carolis

VP OF SALES, SEGRA INTERNATIONAL

José Manuel López

José Manuel López

LP COMMERCIAL MANAGER EUROPE, ADVANCED NUTRIENTS

Cannabis breeding plays a vital role in the emerging legal industry, as it allows for the development of narrowly tailored products to meet the evolving needs of patients and consumers. As the legal market continues to advance, so does the potential for breeding and genetics to play an even greater role in shaping the industry. Expert scientists and cultivators will discuss the latest trends in cannabis genetics and provide insight into where the sector is headed in the future.

  • 14:50

    Emerging Legal Cannabis Markets

Which countries have the potential to create the most opportunities?
Rob Pero

Rob Pero

FOUNDER, INDIGENOUS CANNABIS INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION

Kohei Yamada

Kohei Yamada

FOUNDER CEO, KISEKI GROUP

Patty Holmes

Patty Holmes

EXECUTIVE MANAGER, MEDICINAL CANNABIS INDUSTRY AUSTRALIA (MCIA)

Zach George

Zach George

CEO, SNDL

David Hyde

David Hyde

FOUNDER & CEO, HYDE ADVISORY & INVESTMENTS INC

The legal international cannabis industry is young by every measure, and many nations are still working to overhaul their cannabis policies and industry regulations. Currently, the legal industry landscape is dominated by a handful of nations, however, the landscape is guaranteed to evolve in the coming years as more markets enter the global arena. Oceania, Latin America, and certain European markets are well-positioned to harness their domestic resources to gain a meaningful share of the global market. Panelists will discuss which markets may hold the most potential in the short and long term, and what sectors of the industry people should focus on going forward.

  • 15:30

    The Cannabis Cultivation Technology Revolution

Cutting-edge technology that is elevating global cultivation operations
Mikhail Sagal

Mikhail Sagal

PRESIDENT, TSRGROW

Franz Josef Sima

Franz Josef Sima

HORTICULTURE SERVICE SPECIALIST IN THE EMEA REGION, FLUENCE

George Terry

George Terry

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, RAD SOURCE

Sonny Moerenhout

Sonny Moerenhout

MANAGING PARTNER, CULTIVATORS

Rob Perry

Rob Perry

VP of Sales, GrowerIQ

Demand for high-quality and sustainable cannabis products is on the rise. The needs of consumers and patients continue to evolve, and how cannabis is produced is more important than ever. In addition to changing consumer and patient demands, many governments are expressing increased concern about the industry’s level of energy consumption. From automated systems and precision agriculture to advanced lighting and environmental controls, technology is playing an increasingly important role in cannabis cultivation processes. This panel brings together experts in the fields of cultivation, technology, and innovation to discuss the latest developments in cannabis production. Panelists will examine how innovative technologies are being incorporated to increase cannabis cultivation efficiency and product quality.
  • 16:10

    The Science Of Cannabis Extraction

Harnessing the power of science to create cannabis concentrates
Michael Knodt

Michael Knodt

FREELANCE JOURNALIST

MODERATOR
Nick Brousianos

Nick Brousianos

CEO, CANNABREEZE

George Stantchev

George Stantchev

CEO, COMERG

Emmett McGregor

Emmett McGregor

FOUNDER AND CEO, SCIPHY SYSTEMS

Rui Soares

Rui Soares

FOUNDER AND CEO, PARALAB

Jonah Barber

Jonah Barber

PRESIDENT, DECIMAL ENGINEERED SYSTEMS

The cannabis extraction sector of the emerging cannabis industry is currently undergoing significant changes from nearly every angle, including regulations, technology, and shifting consumer and patient demands. As the international cannabis import/export market continues to develop, products derived from cannabis extracts will be particularly popular, including new products involving lesser-known cannabinoids. A panel of leading experts will discuss the current state of the international cannabis extraction sector and where the sector is headed in the coming years.