Withdrawal of South Africa’s Hemp Foods Ban Marks New Regulatory Approach

South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa is withdrawing a recent ban on cannabis food products, initially imposed by Health Minister Dr. Pakishe Aaron Motsoaledi. The ban raised concerns about unregulated cannabis edibles amidst a lack of national guidelines on their production. Ramaphosa emphasizes the need for stakeholder engagement to formulate appropriate regulations, reflecting his support for the growth of the hemp industry in South Africa.

The recent ban on cannabis foods in South Africa, as announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa, is set to be retracted. The Minister of Health, Dr. Pakishe Aaron Motsoaledi, had previously established regulations prohibiting the sale, importation, and manufacture of food items containing cannabis, including hemp foods, causing concern within the local industry regarding future developments.

The decision for the ban stemmed from public safety concerns regarding unregulated cannabis edibles, as there exists no current nationwide framework to oversee the production, testing, and marketing of such goods in South Africa. In a subsequent briefing, President Ramaphosa and the Minister of Health reiterated their worries concerning the influx of unregulated imported food products containing hemp and cannabis into the South African market.

However, the sweeping ban was deemed excessive, leading President Ramaphosa to advocate for greater engagement with stakeholders and public input in formulating new regulatory measures that prioritize consumer protection, particularly for minors. A statement from the Presidential office affirmed that the Minister of Health would withdraw the previous regulations under the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics, and Disinfectants Act, allowing for revisions based on continued consultations.

The possibility of establishing a robust hemp industry in South Africa remains viable, particularly with President Ramaphosa’s evident support for hemp. During his State of the Nation Address earlier this year, he stated a desire for South Africa to excel in the commercial production of hemp and cannabis, suggesting that with appropriate regulation adjustments, this aspiration may still be fulfilled.

In summary, South Africa’s recent ban on hemp and cannabis foods is being rescinded following public outcry and concerns regarding stakeholder consultation. The government aims to develop a regulatory framework that ensures safety and consumer protection, particularly concerning minors. President Ramaphosa’s commitment to the hemp industry remains strong, which could facilitate its growth if new regulations are successfully implemented.

Original Source: hempgazette.com