How South Africa can lead hemp, cannabis sectors

Withdrawal of recent prohibition on cannabis and hemp foodstuffs is pivotal for industry

- SHAAD VAYEJ

SOUTH Africa’s cannabis and hemp industries have long been poised for transformation, yet regulatory uncertainties often stalled their potential.

The latest announcement from President Cyril Ramaphosa, confirming the withdrawal of the recent prohibition on cannabis and hemp foodstuffs, is a pivotal moment for the industry. This move signals the government’s commitment to broader stakeholder consultation — a much-needed shift towards transparent and evidence-based regulation.

The withdrawal of the prohibition means that CBD and THC-infused foodstuffs are no longer outright banned under the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act (Foodstuffs Act).

However, this does not mean a freefor-all in the market. The regulation of these products still falls under existing SAHPRA guidelines and the Medicines and Related Substances Act (Medicines Act), which continue to classify certain cannabis-derived products as scheduled substances.

THC-containing edibles with more than 0.2% THC remain Schedule 6 substances under the Medicines Act. These products can only be specifically cultured, imported, and distributed by entities licensed under SAHPRA and in compliance with medicinal cannabis regulations.