to ban cannabis and hemp-derived products," Pillay said. "It is to make sure that the content of these products is acceptable, safe and protected from children." However, now following additional stakeholder engagements, the Minister of Health will rescind the Regulations under the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics, and Disinfectants Act (Foodstuffs Act) that ban the sale, importation, and manufacturing of hemp and cannabis-containing goods. Cape Argus18:T604,

The South African government has withdrawn its ban on cannabis and hemp-derived foodstuffs, following confusion over the initial prohibition. Entrepreneurs and businesses can now breathe a sigh of relief, as the lifting of the ban now opens up new opportunities for growth and innovation in the sector.

In a statement released by the Presidency on Tuesday evening, President Cyril Ramaphosa is said to have reaffirmed his support for more stakeholder input and public participation in the development of new rules to reduce the health risks and negative impact of cannabis and hemp-containing foods, particularly on minors.

"In briefing the President, the Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, expressed concern about unregulated imported foodstuffs flooding the South African market containing hemp and cannabis," the statement reads.

This echoes the sentiments of Dr Anban Pillay, the deputy general at the National Department of Health who had said the intention behind the ban had been misunderstood.

"The intention is not to ban cannabis and hemp-derived products," Pillay said. "It is to make sure that the content of these products is acceptable, safe and protected from children."

However, now following additional stakeholder engagements, the Minister of Health will rescind the Regulations under the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics, and Disinfectants Act (Foodstuffs Act) that ban the sale, importation, and manufacturing of hemp and cannabis-containing goods.

Cape Argus

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South African government backtracks on banning cannabis edibles