South Africa’s Cannabis Ban Sparks Outrage and Economic Concerns

The Department of Health in South Africa has enacted an unconstitutional ban on all food products made from the cannabis plant, including hemp and CBD, prompting demands for reversal from industry experts. This move lacks public participation and contradicts President Ramaphosa’s support for cannabis opportunities. The ban could stifle South Africa’s growth in the global hemp market, known for its economic potential and job creation.

The recent unilateral ban imposed by South Africa’s Department of Health on all food products derived from the cannabis plant, including hemp and cannabidiol (CBD), has raised serious concerns among industry experts. They assert that the ban is unconstitutional and poorly informed, demanding immediate retraction to avoid legal action. The ban, quietly gazetted on March 7, followed an earlier signature in January, and it lacked public participation despite President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasizing cannabis opportunities in his State of the Nation address.

Penny Campbell, Director of Food Control at the Department of Health, stated that this prohibition prevents the labeling of CBD or tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) as foodstuffs. CBD has well-documented therapeutic properties with no psychoactive effects, unlike THC. Campbell claimed the objective is to ensure product safety and prevent misleading claims while requiring manufacturers to disclose the presence of any cannabis components. However, conflicts arose regarding the nutritional classification of hemp, which has numerous applications.

Ayanda Bam, President of Friends of Hemp South Africa, expressed his discontent with the ban, emphasizing that hemp seeds are versatile and nutritious. He pointed out that the seeds can be utilized in various food products, with significant health benefits due to their rich omega and protein content. Furthermore, Bam criticized the Department of Health for inadequate research, stating, “They have not done their homework, and that’s the challenge.”

Despite the government’s potential for growth in the hemp market as indicated by Ramaphosa, experts believe the ban inhibits South Africa’s chances to thrive in global trade. The hemp seed market, valued at $5 billion in 2023 and expected to double by 2032, is predominantly driven by food and beverage applications. Notably, competitors such as the US and EU recognize hemp as a food source, while South Africa struggles to align with these standards.

South Africa boasts over 1,400 compliant hemp cultivation businesses alongside substantial investments in the sector. However, Friends of Hemp South Africa reported significant financial losses attributed to the ban, accruing over R80 million in inventory losses monthly. The potential economic benefits and job creation in the cannabis sector are remarkable, with estimates suggesting up to 4 million jobs could be generated within the entire value chain.

Tebogo Tlhopane, CEO of Biomuti, highlighted the essential need for sensible legislation to foster investment and growth in cannabis-related industries. The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition has pledged to support regulatory reforms to boost the cannabis market, but lobbyists criticize the slow pace of implementation.

At a recent webinar, Sinah Mosehla from the Department of Trade emphasized that current production must cease and promised collaboration between departments to establish a regulatory framework for cannabis use. The Health Department remained silent on inquiries regarding this matter, while the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority declined comment, stating the ban does not impact its regulatory scope.

In conclusion, the Department of Health’s ban on cannabis-derived food products in South Africa has sparked considerable opposition from industry experts, who deem it unconstitutional and detrimental to economic potential. The prohibition undermines the acknowledged therapeutic properties of CBD and the nutritional benefits of hemp. While the government has signaled its intention to embrace the cannabis market, the ban poses significant challenges to South Africa’s competitiveness in the global hemp industry. It is imperative for the government to adopt clear, sensible legislation that fosters growth and innovation in this promising sector.

Original Source: mg.co.za