Government Backtracks On Cannabis Food Ban After Public Outcry

A major reversal on the government's crackdown on cannabis-infused food products has sparked fresh debate over South Africa's approach to the fast-growing hemp industry, Cape town Etc reports.

Just weeks after Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi quietly pushed through regulations banning the sale , production, and import of food containing cannabis or hemp, he is now set to withdraw them. The decision follows high-level talks with President Cyril Ramaphosa , who has called for broader consultation before any final policies are implemented.

The presidency confirmed the about-turn on Tuesday night, with spokesperson Vincent Magwenya stating that Ramaphosa supports further stakeholder engagement to assess potential health risks and ensure public participation. As a result, the controversial regulations, which were published under the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act of 1972, will no longer be enforced.

The initial ban had sent shockwaves through the cannabis sector, particularly among small business owners who rely on hemp-based food products. Critics accused the health department of pushing the regulations through without proper engagement, jeopardising a market that has seen increasing investment.

Industry leaders had threatened legal action, arguing that the prohibition lacked scientific justification and directly contradicted the government's previous commitments to supporting the commercialisation of cannabis. The backlash intensified after it was revealed that Motsoaledi had been summoned to discuss the matter with the president. However, the health minister's office denied he had been called in, stating instead that he had requested the meeting himself.