Africa: South Africa’s Streamlined Licensing for Medical Cannabis
In May 2024, South Africa enacted the Cannabis for Private Purposes Act, regulating the cultivation, possession, and use of cannabis by adults in private settings. This legislation removes cannabis from the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act, paving the way for the amendment of other laws to allow for the industrialization of the cannabis sector.

The Act also provides for the expungement of criminal records of persons convicted of possession or use of cannabis or dealing in cannabis on the basis of a presumption. This move is expected to benefit many individuals previously penalized under stringent drug laws.
The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) has introduced new guidelines to simplify the licensing process for medical cannabis cultivation and production. These measures aim to boost the country’s cannabis industry, attracting local and international investments. South Africa’s favorable climate and agricultural expertise position it well to become a significant player in the global cannabis market.
Author: CNW
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Keywords: South Africa cannabis legislation, Cannabis for Private Purposes Act, medical cannabis licensing South Africa, cannabis industry South Africa, cannabis cultivation Africa
Hashtags: #SouthAfricaCannabis #CannabisLegislation #MedicalCannabis #CannabisIndustry #AfricaCannabis