The New Mexico Cannabis Control Division (CCD) has issued its first adult-use retail and manufacturing licenses, according to a department press release.

“With each day New Mexico’s adult-use cannabis industry is growing,” CCD Director Kristen Thomson said in a public statement. “Bringing manufacturers and retailers online is an important milestone that allows more businesses, entrepreneurs and communities to maximize the economic opportunities adult-use cannabis sales will provide. These three licensees alone plan to hire nearly 130 full- and part-time workers.”

The first retail licenses were awarded to two Albuquerque-based businesses, Enchanted Botanicals and Dulce Cannabis.

Enchanted Botanicals plans to open two locations in the city, one in Nob Hill and one at San Mateo and Menaul, while Dulce Cannabis plans to open a location on Carlisle Boulevard in Albuquerque.

RELATED: New Mexico Issues First Adult-Use Cannabis Licenses

The CCD awarded its first adult-use cannabis manufacturing license to Vana, a minority- and woman-owned business based in Clovis.

“This is an exciting time to for New Mexico’s new cannabis industry,” Thomson said. “These licenses are historic and not only move New Mexico forward, but also reflect New Mexico values of social equity and fairness.”

The CCD continues to accept licensing applications on its website, and New Mexico is expected to launch its first adult-use cannabis sales April 1.