6.6. Hemp Fibre and Shives Processing

The processing of hemp fibre and shives involves several key players, including decorticators and scutching lines. These facilities process hemp straw into usable products like fibre and shives. In the EU, there are over a dozen decorticators, with significant concentrations in France, the Netherlands, Germany, Poland, Romania, and Lithuania. More facilities should be

Farmers producing hemp straw need to establish relationships with these processing facilities to understand their specific raw material requirements. Contracts between farmers and processors often span more than a year, providing stability and predictability in the supply chain. Alternatively, cooperatives can offer shared resources and reduce the financial burden associated with expensive harvesting machinery.

For new investors in hemp straw processing, it is crucial to establish business relationships with potential buyers of their semi-processed products before setting up production lines. The quality of hemp fibre and shives can vary significantly based on the end-use, ranging from paper products to construction materials. Direct communication between processors and buyers helps in tailoring the product to meet specific requirements, thereby ensuring market acceptance.