The Chinese-funded and staffed marijuana farms springing up across the US

Large numbers of Chinese migrants are finding work on marijuana farms in the U.S., with some facing exploitation and violations of state growing rules. An NPR investigation uncovered Chinese-funded and staffed cannabis farms in New Mexico, where workers were trafficked, underpaid, and living in poor conditions. These farms are part of a trend where Chinese migrants seek opportunities in the U.S. cannabis market. Despite federal marijuana prohibition, many states have legalized it, leading to a rush of investments and land purchases for cannabis cultivation. While some Chinese investors were attracted to the industry, investigations have not found direct Chinese state or organized crime involvement. However, instances of exploitation and legal challenges, such as labor abuse lawsuits and zoning violations, have emerged in various Chinese-funded grow operations. The influx of Chinese workers into the U.S. cannabis industry highlights the complex intersection of immigration, labor exploitation, and the evolving legal landscape surrounding marijuana cultivation in the country.