Parliament, Friday, 6 March 2026 – The Portfolio Committee on Trade, Industry and Competition today noted government’s plans to introduce a Cannabis Bill to Parliament by mid-2027, saying the legislation will play a crucial role in unlocking the economic potential of the sector while ensuring public safety.
Today, the committee received briefings from the national Departments of Trade, Industry and Competition; Agriculture; and Health, as well as from researchers and industry stakeholders. These briefings formed part of its oversight of the National Cannabis Master Plan and the development of a regulatory framework for the cannabis industry.
The committee also noted the progress made by other departments. The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development has recently called for comments on the draft regulations under the Cannabis for Private Purposes Act, which is critical to legalise the private use of cannabis. Other departments are working on policies related to commercialisation, health standards and licensing.
During the meeting, researchers from the University of Cape Town and the South African Medical Research Council also briefed the committee on the emerging market for cannabis-infused food products, often referred to as cannabis edibles. These products include items such as sweets, beverages, chocolates, baked goods and capsules that contain cannabis ingredients. While these products are growing in popularity globally, researchers warned that they also carry potential health risks if not properly regulated.
The committee heard that vulnerable groups such as children, young people, pregnant women and older people may face risks if cannabis-infused food products are not carefully controlled.
While private use of cannabis is legal for adults, its commercial trade remains largely prohibited in South Africa leading to the domination of the sector by the illicit market. However, export to other countries is permitted through a license.
Estimates presented to the committee suggest that the illicit cannabis market in South Africa could be worth around R36 billion, while the legal market remains significantly smaller.
The Chairperson, Mr Mzwandile Masina said the committee will carefully consider the recommendations made by researchers, industry stakeholders and government departments as Parliament prepares for future legislation.
“We encourage stakeholder engagement between all the relevant departments, academia and the private sector to ensure proper regulation of the sector,” Mr Masina said.
The committee will continue to monitor progress on the drafting of the Cannabis Bill and the broader implementation of the National Cannabis Master Plan.
ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON TRADE, INDUSTRY AND COMPETITION, MR MZWANDILE MASINA.
For media enquiries, please contact the committee’s Media Officer:
Name: Ms Faith Ndenze
Parliamentary Communication Services
Cell: 081 377 0686
Email: fndenze@parliament.gov.za
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