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Policy & Advocacy

Shaping the future of South Africa’s Cannabis industry through evidence-based policy development and stakeholder advocacy

Fields of Green for ALL NPC is the policy and advocacy arm of SACHIDA. Please see their website for details of their work on Human Rights, Harm Reduction and Drug Policy Reform.

Active Policy Initiatives

Cannabis for Private Purposes Act Implementation Progress

In Progress

The Cannabis for Private Purposes Act, signed into law in 2024, provides a framework for personal Cannabis use and cultivation. Implementation ongoing with focus on possession limits, cultivation rights, and prevention measures.

30%

Last Update: March 2025

Government Consultations: Q3 2025

National Cannabis Master Plan

In Progress

Developing comprehensive framework for Cannabis industry development with projected R28 billion economic contribution and 130,000+ jobs creation potential.

50%

Last Update: March 2025

Public Consultation: Q4 2025

Medical Cannabis Licensing Reform (SAHPRA)

Completed
Successfully streamlined licensing processes for commercial Cannabis cultivation and processing, ensuring transparency and efficiency.
100%

Last Update: March 15, 2024

Implementation Phase

Export Framework Development

Completed

Established standardized procedures for Cannabis product exports in compliance with international standards.

100%

Last Update: March 10, 2024

Active Implementation

Regulations for Cannabis Social Clubs

Completed

SACHIDA is working with our strategic partners to advocate for the self regulation of hundreds of clubs in South Africa.

20%

Last Update: 

Historical Policy Timeline

2024: Cannabis for Private Purposes Act

President Cyril Ramaphosa signed the Cannabis for Private Purposes Act into law on May 28, 2024, marking a significant milestone in Cannabis regulation. As of May 2025, no regulations have been published in order to promulgate the Act. Cannabis remains in the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act of 1992.

Key Provisions:

  • Trade in Cannabis remains illegal in South Africa.

  • Adults (18+) can possess and cultivate Cannabis for private use

  • Public consumption remains prohibited

  • Pathways created to expunge prior Cannabis-related convictions

  • Protections added to prevent child exposure to Cannabis

2021: Industrial Cannabis (Hemp)

The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development is in the process of reclassifying Hemp (THC ≤ 2%) as an agricultural commodity.

Outcomes:

  • Legal pathways will be established for Hemp production

  • We can look forward to increased research and investment in industrial Hemp applications

  • There will be greater support for agricultural sector growth and job creation

2018: Constitutional Court Judgement

Landmark ruling declared criminalisation of Private Cannabis Use and cultivation unconstitutional.

Impact:

  • Set foundation for future Cannabis regulatory frameworks

  • Prompted legislative action towards formal legalisation

  • Established precedent for personal rights regarding Cannabis use

Projected Economic Impact

Industry Growth

R28 billion

Projected annual economic contribution

130,000+

Estimated jobs to be created

Key Focus Areas

  • Sustainable cultivation practices
  • Support for small-scale farmers
  • Investment in local industry

Get Involved

Our members are able to join SACHIDA’s policy working groups and help shape the future of South Africa’s Cannabis industry.

Develop and review licensing frameworks and compliance standards for the Cannabis industry.

Key Activities

  • Review licensing procedures

  • Propose compliance guidelines

  • Assess regulatory impacts

  • Recommend policy updates

Focus on international market access and trade regulation for South African Cannabis products.

Key Activities

  • Analyze trade barriers

  • Develop export strategies

  • Monitor global markets

  • Facilitate trade partnerships

Establish and maintain quality standards for Cannabis cultivation and processing.

Key Activities

  • Define quality metrics

  • Review testing protocols

  • Update safety guidelines

  • Monitor industry practices

Promote environmentally conscious cultivation and processing methods.

Key Activities

  • Research sustainable methods

  • Develop green guidelines

  • Monitor environmental impact

  • Propose eco-friendly solutions

Support the development and regulation of Cannabis social clubs in South Africa.

Key Activities

  • Draft club guidelines

  • Review safety protocols

  • Develop member policies

  • Monitor club operations

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