BBC News | WALES | Hemp factory boost for farmers

A high-tech business processing hemp for the manufacturing industry could help transform the prospects for cash-strapped farmers in Wales.

Welsh Assembly Agriculture Secretary Christine Gwyther will open the Bio-fibre factory near Caernarfon, which will create 15 jobs.

Farmers who grow the crops are expected to benefit directly from the company's profits.

Forty per cent of the company is owned by the crop producers, who will earn income from the sales.

Spinning yarn: Flax and hemp are important products
Farmers were encouraged to enter into the flax and hemp industry following the deepening agriculture crisis in Wales.

The produce is used for the manufacture of rope, fabric and plastics used in the car industry.

Hemp is cannabis grown specifically for industrial use and thus contains very low levels of cannabinoids (THC).

The use of hemp dates back many thousands of years.

With a relatively short growth cycle of 120 days, hemp is an efficient and economical crop for farmers to grow.

A wide range of products are made from flax, including building materials, food, medicine, paint, detergent, varnish, oil, ink, and fuel.

Unlike many crops, hemp can be grown in most locations and climates with only moderate water and fertilizer requirements.


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