Retailers can put their edible cannabis and hemp products back on the shelves.

This follows the Presidency’s announcement on Tuesday that the contested ban on the manufacturing, sale and importation of such products will be withdrawn. This follows backlash on the sudden ban gazetted earlier this month.

According to the Presidency, Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi highlighted concerns regarding an influx of unregulated imported cannabis and hemp products on the South African market. This is believed to be what triggered the ban.

Following a briefing with the Minister, President Cyril Ramaphosa instructed Motsoaledi to withdraw it.

But Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said Ramaphosa wants further talks held on the matter, specifically to address potential health concerns.

“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.”

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The Department of Health plans to engage with stakeholders, as well as consult the public, before publishing the revised regulations.

Meanwhile, Western Cape Agriculture, Economic Development, and Tourism MEC, Dr Ivan Meyer, welcomed the decision to lift the ban.

He said a comprehensive consultation process would allow for a more informed decision.

“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,” said Meyer.

He further noted that the provincial government’s 2023 Cannabis Framework and Implementation Plan, “CanPlan” for short, provides relevant insights.