In a surprising and controversial move, South Africa’s Minister of Health, Dr. Pakishe Aaron Motsoaledi, issued new regulations on March 10, 2025, banning the sale, importation, and manufacture of hemp seed, hemp seed oil, hemp seed flour, and any part or derivative of Cannabis sativa L. in food and cosmetics. The decision has left the local hemp industry reeling and raised serious questions about the government’s consistency in supporting the sector.
A Policy U-Turn
The new regulations directly contradict South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent public support for the hemp and cannabis industries. In his State of the Nation Address on February 6, 2025, President Ramaphosa emphasized the economic potential of hemp and cannabis, stating, “We want South Africa to be leading in the commercial production of hemp and cannabis.” This latest decision appears to undermine that vision, leaving industry leaders confused and frustrated.
Morris Beegle, publisher of Let’s Talk Hemp, recently visited South Africa and spoke with local stakeholders and government officials, leaving with a strong sense of optimism about the industry’s future. In the recently released Let’s Talk Hemp Volume Up Podcast – The Cape Town Tapes, Beegle discussed the promising potential of South Africa’s hemp and cannabis markets, making the sudden ban even more perplexing. “This decision feels like an about-face,” Beegle commented. “It raises serious questions about the alignment and cohesion within the government.”
Industry Backlash
Tony Budden, a long-time hemp activist and co-founder of Hemporium, expressed his concern over the ban. “This decision directly contradicts the president’s statements and the broader economic goals of the country. Hemp foods are widely accepted and consumed globally for their nutritional benefits—this move sets South Africa back,” Budden said.
He noted that countries like the United States, Canada, China, and members of the European Union have successfully integrated hemp into their food industries, generating significant economic value. Budden warned that the ban could damage investor confidence and stall the momentum the South African hemp industry was beginning to build.
Cheeba Africa Cannabis and Hemp Academy echoed similar concerns in a formal letter to President Ramaphosa. They highlighted hemp’s nutritional benefits, noting that hemp seeds provide a complete protein source, essential fatty acids, and key vitamins and minerals—important in a country grappling with malnutrition and food insecurity.
“At a time when South Africa is battling rising rates of obesity, diabetes, and malnutrition, banning a highly nutritious, natural, and sustainable food source is both illogical and detrimental to public health,” the letter stated.
Economic and Regulatory Impact
Beyond health and nutrition, the ban also threatens the economic potential of the hemp industry. Approximately 1,500 hemp cultivation permits have already been issued to South African farmers. Removing hemp foods from the market undercuts a growing segment of the industry, reducing opportunities for rural farmers and small businesses.
Cheeba’s letter also pointed out the inconsistency within the government. While the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the Gauteng Department of Agriculture have been investing in hemp-based product development, the Department of Health’s decision undermines these efforts. “This sends a damaging signal to both local and international investors who have shown cautious optimism about South Africa’s potential in this sector,” the letter stated.
Calls for Clarity and Action
Stakeholders are urging the government to reconsider the ban and engage with the industry to develop evidence-based policies. Budden emphasized the need for consistency and alignment across government departments: “Without clear and consistent policies, the potential for growth and innovation in this sector could be stifled.”
Let’s Talk Hemp has reached out to the Department of Health for comment and is awaiting a response. Industry leaders remain hopeful that the government will reverse the decision and create a stable regulatory framework that supports the long-term growth of South Africa’s hemp industry.
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