Cannabis Sales Strong

(MNN)-Minnesota’s legal recreational cannabis market has crossed a major early milestone, with sales now exceeding $50 million, according to state officials. The growth follows the rollout of licensed retail operations that began last fall, marking the first time most adults could legally purchase marijuana outside of tribal dispensaries. Regulators say the industry is still taking shape and expect sales totals to climb quickly as more businesses open and product availability improves. State leaders anticipate monthly sales will rise significantly over the next year as licenses continue to be issued. Many of the approved businesses are small, locally owned operations, part of Minnesota’s strategy to build the market gradually.