Aurora Cannabis Settles Patent Litigation with Willow Biosciences

TORONTO — Aurora Cannabis, the Alberta-based licensed producer, has finalized a confidential settlement with Willow Biosciences over a previously ongoing patent litigation that began in July 2021. The specific terms and conditions of the settlement remain under wraps, with both companies refraining from public disclosure of detailed particulars.

Aurora had previously initiated the patent infringement action against Willow Biosciences, asserting that the latter’s biosynthetic processes for crafting cannabinoids directly infringed on Aurora’s co-held patents. These patents are jointly owned with the University of Saskatchewan and the National Research Council (NRC) of Canada.

The innovative technology safeguarded by these patents was devised by Jonathan Page, co-founder of Anandia Labs and Aurora’s ex-chief science officer, alongside his dedicated team. Their groundbreaking research at the University of Saskatchewan and the NRC culminated in the discovery of crucial enzymes and the respective genes present in the biosynthetic pathways of cannabis plants.

In a strategic business move back in 2018, Aurora acquired Anandia in an all-stock agreement that, at the time, was valued at approximately 115 million Canadian dollars (equivalent to $85 million). However, by the following year, Aurora decided to shutter the operations of Anandia.

Miguel Martin, the CEO of Aurora Cannabis, conveyed his contentment regarding the settlement. “We are pleased with the negotiated settlement, which provides Aurora a favorable resolution that ensures our Canadian cannabis-related patent rights are respected,” Martin stated. He further highlighted Aurora’s pioneering efforts in the realm of genetics within the Canadian cannabis industry and emphatically noted the company’s resolve to protect its intellectual property rights, resorting to legal actions if deemed necessary.

In a separate development in 2022, Willow Biosciences communicated its decision to centralize its R&D operations. This included the transfer of pivotal equipment and personnel from its Canadian locations to Mountain View, California.

While the legal chapter closes for Aurora and Willow, the cannabis industry continues to be a dynamic landscape with evolving business strategies and technological advancements.