Steering Progress: A Turning Point for Cannabis, Hemp, and Indigenous Knowledge Systems in South Africa
On 8 October 2025, the national Cannabis & Hemp Steering Committee convened under the leadership of the Department of Trade, Industry & Competition (DTIC), uniting stakeholders from across government, provincial departments, and civil society. The session marked a significant step forward in aligning cannabis and hemp reform with economic development, smallholder participation, and Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS). As Chair […]
Building an Inclusive Cannabis Industry in South Africa
In a recent interview, De Pojo from Bio Muti, a South African nutraceutical company, shared insights into the challenges and opportunities within the country’s cannabis industry. The discussion highlighted the historical and cultural significance of cannabis, the stigma surrounding its use, and the importance of inclusivity in shaping a sustainable market. Challenges and Cultural RootsDe […]
Balancing Economic Potential and Community Rights
South Africa’s parliamentary committee is currently reviewing proposed legislation on private cannabis use, sparking debate among industry stakeholders, lobbyists, and community leaders. Critics argue that the bill imposes heavy restrictions without adequately considering cannabis’s socio-economic benefits, including poverty alleviation, job creation, and agricultural growth. Legislative GapsThe discussion highlights a lack of effective public consultation and […]
Navigating South Africa’s New Cannabis Regulations
The Department of Health has recently introduced new regulations governing the production, sale, and import of cannabis and hemp products. These abrupt changes have left the industry scrambling, with many stakeholders caught off guard due to limited consultation or explanation. Industry ConcernsDeo, chairman of the Cannabis Trade Association Africa, highlighted the legal and economic uncertainties […]
Challenging South Africa’s CBD Laws
The CTAA, in collaboration with Schindlers Attorneys intends to launch proceedings against the Department of Health (“DOH“) and the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (“SAHPRA“), in order to challenge the DOH’s/SAHPRA’s unjust and irrational scheduling of cannabidiol (“CBD“). We have invited members of the public, businesses and other civil society organisations to participate in […]
Growing South Africa’s Cannabis Industry
Growing South Africa’s Cannabis industry is on government’s agenda. Anthony Cohen from Cannabis Trade Association Africa talks to ENCA about the latest developments and lack of pace.
SAPHRA Set to Snuff Out Small CBD
SAHPRA,(South African Health Products Regulatory Authority) is preparing to tighten the legislative noose around the necks of small CBD companies in South Africa by creating impossible barriers to manufacturing and trade. Here’s what you need to know, right now! The worldwide CBD industry has swift momentum as people become aware of the benefits of this […]