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WINNIPEG — Manitoba is sifting through more than 100 applications from businesses that want to sell recreational marijuana when it become legal next summer.

But the government says it plans to only select up to four companies to operate retail outlets in the province.

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Blaine Pedersen, Manitoba’s minister of growth, enterprise and trade, says the successful applicants will know by February if they will get the green light.

He says the government’s goal is to achieve a diverse and competitive retail market.

Delta 9, one of two Manitoba companies federally licensed to produce medical marijuana, has collaborated with Canopy Growth to submit its own pitch.

John Arbuthnot, CEO of Delta 9, says there is plenty of buzz about the four master licences, which could involve dozens of actual retail locations.

“Not surprised to see the excitement and fingers crossed we’ll be one of the successful four,” Arbuthnot said.