European Hemp Industry 2002

Abstract

Abstract This paper presents results from market surveys conducted by the European Industrial Hemp Association (EIHA) in 2001, 2002 and 2003 on hemp production, processing and products. In 2003, the area under hemp cultivation in the European Union (EU) has reached 18,000 ha. The average yield of dry hemp stalks was 6 t/ha in 2001 and 2002. Seventy percent to 80% of fibre produced is used for specialty pulp for cigarette papers and technical applications, about 15% is used in the automotive sector, 5 to 6% is used for insulation mats. Approximately 95% of hurds are used as animal bedding, almost 5% are used in the building sector. More than 95% of seed is sold for animal feed (bird seed, bait for fishing), the remaining is used in the production of food in the form of whole grains, as hulled seed and as oil, small amounts go into the body care and cosmetic sector.