In a shocking move, the Department of Health has prohibited the production and sale of cannabis and hemp-derived foodstuffs in South Africa. This unexpected decision contradicts the government’s recent decriminalization of cannabis, leaving the country’s growing cannabis economy reeling.
The ban, announced under the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics, and Disinfectants Act (1972), prohibits the sale, importation, and manufacture of foodstuffs containing cannabis, hemp, hemp seed oil, or hemp seed flour. This move has sparked intense controversy, with many questioning the government’s motives and the minister’s authority to impose such a ban.
Critics argue that the ban is unconstitutional and undermines the government’s commitment to cannabis legalization. Senior legal researcher Dan Mafora stated that the minister has overstepped their authority, criminalizing conduct that was previously not criminalized.
The ban is particularly surprising given President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent statement that South Africa aims to spearhead the commercial production of hemp and cannabis. The government’s contradictory actions have left entrepreneurs, businesses, and consumers seeking answers and clarity on the future of the cannabis industry in South Africa.
