SA cannabis industry faces crisis amid ban on edibles

LOCAL business owners have expressed concerns over the recent ban on canna- bis-infused edibles, fearing job losses and economic downturns as the government enforces strict regulations.

- NADIA KHAN [e-mail]

This comes after Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, the Minister of Health, earlier this month issued a Government Gazette announce- ment under the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act 1972.

The regulation prohibits the sale, impor- tation and manufacturing of foodstuffs containing “any part of the plant or com- ponent derived from the genus Cannabis sativa L, hemp and hemp seed oil or flour”.

Any person who sells, imports or man- ufactures foodstuff containing the pro- hibited substances is guilty of an offence, and is liable on conviction to a fine or imprisonment.

Randhir Singh, the owner of Zulu Roots Herbal, said while unemployed last year, he saw an opportunity to start a business selling cannabis-related products including edibles.

Singh said he outsourced his items.

“I saw the opportunity as it appeared to be a growing industry with a great demand. I also decided to be a part of it because I needed to fend for myself and my family. This business is like medicine — people feel good when they consume the products.”

Singh said he had three employees.

“This ban has had a severe impact as I am not able to trade. I had to tell my staff there was no longer work. I am now also concerned about how I will meet all my expenses at the end of the month and support my family.

“Sadly, if the ban stays, it will impact the lives of many. All our products are manufactured locally, so it impacts many people along the value chain,” he added.

Another business owner, who declined to be named, said he feared he would soon have to shut down his six stores and retrench staff.

He has been running his business for five years, and sells edibles, drinkables and cannabis buds.