Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism Dr Ivan Meyer welcomed Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi’s decision to withdraw the regulations to ban cannabis-based foodstuffs, following a meeting with President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Last week, the Health Department gazetted a regulatory update banning the import, manufacture and sale of any foods containing cannabis and cannabis products.

The notice, signed by Motsoaledi specified that this prohibition applied to any part of the plant or component of cannabis, including sativa, indica, ruderalis, hemp seed oil, or powder derivatives from the various species or subspecies.

Following public outcry over the proposed ban, Motsoaledi held a meeting with Ramaphosa, and the regulations are now lifted under the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act (Foodstuffs Act) and will allow for comprehensive public consultation.

The Presidency said in a statement that Ramaphosa 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.

“…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,” Meyer said.

He said one of the Government of National Unity's objectives was inclusive growth, and stated that jobs must be protected and that the value chain must be supported.

“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,” he said.

The Department of Health will continue to consult broadly before publishing the revised regulations.