China is widely known as the birthplace of hemp and has been a major player in the hemp market for many years. This country produces the most commercial hemp each year and is still the world's largest exporter of hemp paper, textiles, and biocomposites. Ecuador is one of the newest countries to legalize the planting, cultivation, and harvesting of hemp, as long as it contains less than 1% THC and is used with authorization for medical, scientific, and research purposes. Hemp production in these countries and regions accounts for almost all of the production and area declared in the United States.
Lithuania is a country that stands out from the rest, producing as much or more hemp than some larger countries. Some countries never banned hemp production, while others prohibited it for certain periods in the past before lifting these restrictions.