NSW Premier Mike Baird and Premier Will Hodgman will on Thursday sign a Memorandum of Understanding which will see both states work collaboratively on a range of initiatives, such as clinical trials, research, and developing capacity for the cultivation of cannabis for medicinal and scientific purposes.

Premier Hodgman said the MoU recognised Tasmania’s research strengths and proven track record in regulating poppy cultivation.

''Importantly, this MoU recognises Tasmania’s expertise in research and our world-leading regulation and cultivation of poppies,'' Mr Hodgman said.

''It provides for collaborative state-based cultivation trials to enhance our understanding of cannabis cultivation in Australia for medicinal and scientific purposes,'' he said.

NSW has announced three clinical trials that will target children with severe epilepsy, adults with terminal illness and adults with chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.