Expansion into Canada with New Zealand genetics export

13/04/2026 08:30 NZST, MKTUPDTE

Rua Bioscience is pleased to announce its entry into the Canadian market, following the successful export of four New Zealand cannabis varieties to Canadian nursery Apollo Green in March.

The move marks a significant step in Rua’s international growth strategy, as the company continues to focus on developing and exporting our unique cannabis genetics to global markets.

Apollo Green, a Canada-based nursery specialising in cannabis genetics and plant development, will work with Rua to introduce these New Zealand-sourced and bred varieties into the Canadian market.

Apollo Green Managing Director Matthew Turner has described the import as a notable development for the Canadian market, representing the first known legal import of live cannabis genetics from New Zealand into Canada and also the first successful legal export of live cannabis genetics out of New Zealand.

This partnership with Apollo Green also enables Rua Bioscience to enter a legal adult-use cannabis market for the first time. Canada legalised cannabis for non-medical use in 2018, becoming one of the first major economies to do so. The country now represents one of the largest regulated cannabis markets globally, with industry estimates valuing the legal market at approximately CAD$4-5 billion annually.

Rua Bioscience Chief Executive Paul Naske said the export demonstrates the company’s ability to navigate complex international regulations.

“Our strategy is centred on developing differentiated genetics and connecting them with high-value global markets. This milestone reflects the strength of our team and our long-term commitment to building a sustainable international business.”

Rua Bioscience, headquartered in Te Tairāwhiti Gisborne, has positioned itself as an export-led company, focusing on genetic innovation and international partnerships as a pathway to growth.

ENDS

 

The person who authorised this announcement:

Paul Naske

Chief Executive Officer

paul.naske@ruabio.com

+64 21 445154