On 2nd August, ARUC sent them a number of recommendations and corrections to ensure their operations are in line with the law and regulations. Sun Growers said they quickly implemented these recommendations and informed ARUC of such in an email on 30th August.

However, almost five months later, the would-be association warned that it has yet to receive a response, despite several reminders by email and phone.

Sun Growers warned it has already spent a substantial amount of money on preparing its plans, identifying sites and entering into operational agreements with service providers.

“These agreements can’t remain in limbo ad eternal because the service providers aren’t in a position to keep waiting without payment until the deal kicks into force and the operation starts,” they wrote. “Therefore the association has had to pay them more money to keep them on board.”

Sun Growers went on to warn that other organisations received a response after only a few days and that this amounts to unfair treatment.

They gave ARUC two weeks to respond and warned a failure to do so could see them take legal action to protect their rights.

Lovin Malta has reached out to ARUC to ask for an update on Sun Growers’ application.

Six cannabis associations – KDD Society, Ta’ Zelli, Sprawt, Northern Lights, NEGE, and Pollen Theory – have been licensed so far and it is expected that they will be able to start selling the plant to their members in the first quarter of this year.

Cover photo: ARUC’s Executive Chairperson Leonid McKay

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