Govt to withdraw law banning sale of cannabis & hemp products to allow for public participation process

JOHANNESBURG - Government has announced it will be withdrawing the law banning the sale of cannabis and hemp products in the country to allow for a public participation process.

Earlier in March, the health department announced a blanket ban on all cannabis and hemp products.

This led to an outcry from the cannabis industry and the public alike, who called it a threat on the future of the sector in the country.

The Office of the Presidency said that Cyril Ramaphosa had taken note of the health minister’s concerns over the unregulated nature of the products. 

Presidential spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya: "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."