Minister of Health, Aaron Motsoaledi, has withdrawn the regulations banning foods containing hemp and cannabis. This follows backlash about the impact the restrictions would have on the cannabis industry.
PICTURE: PixabayMotsoaledi met with President Cyril Ramaphosa and expressed
concern about unregulated foodstuffs containing hemp and cannabis flooding the
South African market.
‘’President Cyril Ramaphosa has affirmed his support for
more stakeholder consultation and public participation on the formulation of
new regulations that will limit health risk and the negative impact of foodstuffs
containing cannabis and hemp, particularly on minors,’’ said the Presidency in
a statement.
‘’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. The
Department of Health will continue to consult broadly before publishing the
revised regulations,’’ it added.
The Western Cape’s Agriculture, Economic Development and
Tourism MEC, Dr Ivan Meyer, welcomed the decision, saying this will allow for
comprehensive public consultation, ensuring that all voices are heard.
‘’This will lead to the development of policies and rules
that support the potential of the cannabis and hemp industry to generate jobs,
improve public health, and boost economic growth.”
“The Western Cape Department of Agriculture’s Western Cape
Cannabis Framework and Implementation Plan (also known as the CanPlan),
launched in March 2023, is a comprehensive resource that provides detailed
insights into the current and future scenario (production, processing, exports)
of cannabis and hemp in the agricultural sector”, continued Meyer.
"One of the Government of National Unity (GNU)
objectives is inclusive growth. So we must protect jobs and support the value
chain. Let us use the consultation period to fully appreciate the value chain
of this sector, including research, biotech and testing capability, IT and
logistics, brand-building, agriculture and agri-processing and infrastructure.
A comprehensive understanding will be crucial in maximising the contribution
the cannabis and hemp value chain can make to the Western Cape's economic,
social and environmental objectives,” added Meyer.
Done By: Mitchum George
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