There is no question that hemp fiber will eventually secure a key role in the global economy.  The timing of supply chain development for hemp fiber is a question on many minds.  There is not much precedent to explore when speculating the development of a hemp fiber supply chain.  Hemp is unparalleled as an agricultural commodity, with its unique history of prohibition, preceded by many years of cultivation and market development.  Hemp once had a pivotal role in global transportation, used to rig the many seagoing vessels that are the foundation of modern supply chains.  Ironically, hemp may also have an important role in modern transportation, having already played a bit part in the European auto sector.

When comparing the evolution of cotton as a global commodity, it isn’t practical to expect many similarities with hemp’s re-entry.  The available technology…