DailySun
Johannesburg – Numerous businesses that were close to shutting down due to the prohibition on cannabis and hemp food products have received a welcome reprieve.
In light of significant public concern, President Cyril Ramaphosa declared on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, that further consultations will occur, leading to the lifting of the ban on cannabis-based food products, previously enforced by Health Minister Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi.
“During the briefing, Minister of Health Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi expressed his concerns about the surge of unregulated imported hemp and cannabis food products entering the South African market,” the Presidency noted.
“President Ramaphosa has reaffirmed his dedication to improving stakeholder engagement and public participation in creating new regulations aimed at mitigating health risks and the negative impacts of food products containing cannabis and hemp, particularly for minors,” clarified the presidency in a brief statement.
“After further discussions with stakeholders, the Minister of Health will repeal the Regulations under the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics, and Disinfectants Act (Foodstuffs Act) that currently prohibit the sale, importation, and production of food products containing hemp and cannabis.”
Vincent Magwenya, the President’s spokesperson, mentioned that the Department of Health will engage in extensive consultations prior to unveiling the revised regulations.
This change is a considerable relief for businesses involved in the sale, importation, and production of hemp and cannabis food products.
Earlier this month, the Democratic Alliance (DA) voiced its disapproval of the ban, highlighting the negative implications for public policy and the significant economic harm this decision could inflict on South Africa’s burgeoning hemp and cannabis industries.
In advocating for the ban’s cancellation, Michele Clarke MP – DA Spokesperson on Health stated on March 18, 2025: “South Africa’s hemp industry is flourishing, with over 1,400 licensed cultivation businesses and 400 SMMEs, all contributing to job creation and the local economy.
“However, the ban poses a threat to the growth of this sector.
“The DA calls on President Cyril Ramaphosa to reverse this detrimental regulation, which fails to consider public consultation and the insights of businesses and health professionals.
“Instead of imposing restrictions, the government should support the hemp industry, which has the potential to boost job creation, enhance public health, and promote sustainable economic development.”
The GOOD party also voiced their opposition to the ban.
GOOD Party Secretary-General Brett Herron highlighted that, despite the Constitutional Court decriminalizing cannabis use in 2018, its sale remains illegal.
Herron pointed out that this contradiction threatens the livelihoods of nearly a million South Africans.
