Towards the fair regulation of all coca leaf derivatives in Colombia

Purpose The purpose of this study is to envision the possible path to regulation of the coca leaf and its derivatives. There are a range of possible coca derivatives that could be considered for the broader market and which could be conceived of as risk and harm reduction interventions, as well as have other nutritional and industrial uses. Design/methodology/approach The methodology consists of a historical analysis of the advances in alternative uses of the coca leaf within a commercial market in Colombia as a means of providing greater economic capacity to communities that cultivate the plant, while exploring the nutritional and industrial benefits of the plant. Findings Low-risk products, such as coca leaf and coca tea, could be regulated under the same criteria as coffee or other caffeinated beverages. With a more diverse range of products on the market, consumers can make more informed decisions about their consumption, particularly regarding the associated risks and the effects they desire. Practical implications The legal regulation of coca leaf products implies the creation of a regulatory government agency specialized in the subject, as well as monitor and evaluate the cultivation and processing of products. The production of the coca leaf would still be in the hands of the cultivating communities but would fall under the control and monitoring of the government. Social implications The legal regulation of the coca leaf could have strong impacts on cultivating communities to guarantee their human rights and provide greater protection. Various industries have expressed an interest in using coca leaf derivatives and could represent economic opportunities for communities that cultivate. Originality/value Minimal work has been done on the regulation of coca leaf although there are some international examples that could be relevant in Bolivia and Perú. There is a need to continue exploring the multiple uses of the leaf to reach greater international consensus on its rescheduling.