Hempseed, derived from the versatile Cannabis sativa plant, has been cultivated for thousands of years, with archaeological evidence tracing its use back to ancient China around 8000 BCE, where it was valued for food, oil, and fiber. Over centuries, hemp spread along trade routes to the Middle East, Europe, and eventually the Americas, becoming integral to textile and rope industries. In the modern era, the top countries farming hempseed include China, which leads global production, followed by France, Canada, and the United States. These nations have embraced hempseed for its nutritional value, sustainable agricultural profile, and diverse industrial applications, especially as changing regulations and renewed interest in plant-based products have revitalized global hempseed farming after decades of prohibition in the 20th century.
Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | Russia | 3,240 |
2 | Chile | 1,507 |
Data from United Nations FAO Stat