Rua signs new deal with market leader Apollo Green

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

Tairāwhiti-based Rua Bioscience has signed a “ground-breaking” agreement with Canadian cannabis genetics company Apollo Green.

“This agreement marks a significant milestone in Rua Bioscience’s strategy for growth by introducing its unique East Coast Tairāwhiti cannabis strains to the Canadian market, ultimately creating a new pathway for revenue,” Rua chief executive Paul Naske said.

“Apollo Green, a world leader in cannabis genetics, will now include Rua Bioscience’s distinctive strains in its genetic library that includes over 1000 unique cultivars.

“This collaboration is a testament to the global demand for diverse and high-quality cannabis genetics.

“A wholly owned subsidiary of Biortica Agrimed, Apollo Green has existing sales channels into Europe, North America and Australasia,” Mr Naske said.

“It is a market leader in genetic distribution and licensing.

“Apollo Green provides access to breeder’s right protection through DNA fingerprinting of all genetics, access to cultivation capabilities worldwide and licensing opportunities delivering increased revenue opportunities to Rua Bioscience.

“Rua’s genetics will end up with a genetics company in Canada that deals with all cultivators in Canada — medicinal and adult use.”

Biortica Agrimed is a leader in B2B medicinal cannabis cultivation and is one of Australia’s largest and fastest growing producer of medicinal cannabis.

The collaboration with Apollo Green enables the cultivation of Rua Bioscience’s East Coast Tairāwhiti strains in Canada, broadening the horizons for both companies in the global cannabis market.

“This agreement not only highlights Rua Bioscience’s commitment to innovation and quality but also underscores the potential of New Zealand’s cannabis industry on the world stage.

“This is more than just an agreement; it’s a bridge connecting New Zealand’s exceptional cannabis genetics to the world.”

The NZX-listed company last year stopped manufacturing its own products and now outsources manufacturing.

However, that would not affect availability of medicinal cannabis here, Mr Naske said.

“The Compassionate Access Programme is still full steam ahead in Tairāwhiti.

"Rua remains committed to it and we are sponsoring 30 patients each month with free medicine.

“It is a programme that is driven by doctors. We know that medicinal cannabis products are not subsidised by the Government and because it can have a very positive effect for some patients, we are prepared to continue the programme despite not manufacturing our own product in region.

“We are growing the programme to incorporate more patients into the programme with support from our suppliers and international contacts.”