South Africa’s Cannabis Foods Ban is Withdrawn Following…

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced the withdrawal of a ban on cannabis foods, initially imposed due to public safety concerns about unregulated edibles. Stakeholder consultation will now inform new regulations, aiming to protect consumers while supporting the hemp industry, a sector the President seeks to advance.

Recent developments indicate that South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced the withdrawal of a controversial ban on cannabis foods. This ban, implemented by Health Minister Dr. Pakishe Aaron Motsoaledi nearly three weeks prior, prohibited the sale, importation, and manufacture of food products containing cannabis, which included hemp foods, consequently jeopardizing current and prospective industry opportunities.

The abrupt action reportedly stemmed from public safety concerns regarding unregulated cannabis edibles, as South Africa lacks a national framework for regulating the production, testing, and marketing of these products. Concerns regarding the influx of unregulated imported cannabis foodstuffs affecting local markets prompted the initial ban.

Recognizing that the broad ban was overly restrictive, President Ramaphosa has called for increased stakeholder consultation and public involvement in developing future regulations that will ensure consumer safety, particularly for minors. A statement from the Presidential office confirmed, “In light of further stakeholder consultations, the Minister of Health will withdraw the Regulations under the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act (Foodstuffs Act) to prohibit the sale, importation and manufacture of foodstuffs containing hemp and cannabis.”

Moreover, the President affirmed that the Department of Health would continue consultations to refine these regulations. It is noted that had there been proper stakeholder engagement initially, such a ban might have been avoided. President Ramaphosa’s advocacy for the hemp industry is seen positively, as he expressed a desire for South Africa to lead in the commercial production of hemp and cannabis in his State of the Nation Address in February.

In conclusion, the swift withdrawal of the cannabis food ban by President Cyril Ramaphosa reflects a critical approach towards stakeholder engagement in regulatory development. While safety concerns prompted the initial ban, the emphasis now shifts to collaborative efforts for appropriate regulation that can support South Africa’s growing hemp industry. Continued governmental support for hemp production may enhance the country’s position in the global market.

Original Source: hempgazette.com