South Africa Premier Approves Cannabis Committee Formation

South Africa is on the cutting edge of global cannabis policy in many ways and is a continental leader when it comes to the pursuit of creating a thriving legal cannabis industry.

In September 2018 South Africa’s Supreme Court ruled that personal cannabis possession and use in private settings was legal and that any prohibitions against personal possession and/or use were unconstitutional.

Since the landmark decision was rendered, lawmakers in South Africa have worked to try to set up a national cannabis industry framework in the hopes of creating jobs, boosting local economies, and becoming a leader in cannabis exports.

The process has been slow, however, South Africa passed a major milestone this week when the formation of a key cannabis committee received approval from KwaZulu-Natal Premier Sihle Zikalala. Per IOL:

Among other duties, Zikalala said the committee is in charge of growing the industry and ensuring adherence to regulations.

“The potential for the cannabis/hemp industry is estimated at over R28 billion in South Africa with a potential to create between 10 000 and 20 000 job opportunities across the entire value chain. The establishment of the cannabis industry will lead to the diversification of the economy, create jobs, increase economic growth and contribute to poverty alleviation.

“The provincial cannabis committee will be responsible for growing the cannabis/hemp industry through ensuring adherence to regulatory systems, seed supply systems, research and technology development. It will also drive the sustainable producer systems, market development, supplier development systems, manufacturing and product development, education and training, communication and awareness,” Zikalala said.

Launching and regulating a national cannabis industry is not an easy task. Fortunately, committee members, industry regulators, and lawmakers in South Africa can learn from a growing list of countries that have legal cannabis industries in operation.

Canada provides the best example for South Africa to learn from, being that it’s the only country that currently permits adult-use sales to anyone of legal age. Germany is another country that South Africa can learn from. Only medical sales are currently permitted in Germany, however, the regulatory framework and import/export policies in Germany are definitely worthy of consideration.