South African Government Bans Hemp and Cannabis in Food & Cosmetics
The South African government’s recent decision to ban the use of cannabis and hemp in food and cosmetic products has sparked outrage among industry leaders, cannabis activists, and entrepreneurs. The controversial move, announced by Minister of Health Dr Aaron Motsoaledi in a Government Gazette, has been labeled a regulatory misstep that threatens investment and economic growth in the sector.
What the Ban Means
According to the government’s official notice, it is now illegal to:
✅ Sell, manufacture, or import any foodstuff or cosmetic products containing cannabis, hemp, or derivatives like hemp seed oil or hemp powder.
✅ Use processed or unprocessed parts of the Cannabis sativa plant in food and beauty products.
Anyone caught violating these regulations could face criminal charges, including fines or imprisonment upon conviction.
Industry Outrage: ‘A Step Backward’
The hemp and cannabis industry in South Africa has reacted with frustration and disappointment, arguing that the ban contradicts previous government commitments to developing the sector.
Trenton Birch, CEO of Cheeba Cannabis & Hemp Academy, has been vocal about his opposition, stating that the ban is an infringement on citizens’ rights and could cripple the industry.
In a letter to President Cyril Ramaphosa, Birch criticized the move:
👉 “This decision is a clear failure to recognize the economic potential of hemp in food security, job creation, and industrial growth.”
👉 “It contradicts past government promises to support the hemp and cannabis industries.”
👉 “The ban will send negative signals to investors and harm South Africa’s credibility in the global cannabis market.”
Conflicting Government Stances?
Critics argue that government departments are not aligned on cannabis regulation.
🚨 President Ramaphosa has previously encouraged investment in the cannabis industry, while the Department of Health is now banning key commercial uses of the plant.
🚨 This mixed messaging is causing confusion and uncertainty among business owners and investors.
Dave Sewell, a cannabis grower and member of the Global Cannabis March Movement, pointed out:
🗣️ “The government seems to be working against itself. While some departments talk about growing the industry, others are shutting it down.”
Legal Challenges Underway
Industry stakeholders are now preparing to challenge the ban in court.
🔹 Several legal teams are reviewing the legality of the prohibition and exploring options to reverse it.
🔹 Activists and businesses have indicated that formal objections and public consultations should have been conducted before implementing such a drastic measure.
Will the Ban Hold?
With strong opposition from business owners, activists, and legal experts, pressure is mounting on the government to reconsider the ban.
📌 Will the backlash force a policy change?
📌 Will President Ramaphosa step in to mediate the growing tension?
For now, South Africans hoping to buy cannabis-infused food and beauty products will have to wait for a possible reversal.
Stay updated on this developing story.
