South African Authority Warns Against Fraudulent Service Providers
As South Africa’s emerging legal cannabis industry continues to increase in size and scope, the nation’s regulators are warning against fraudulent service providers. People and entities are reportedly falsely claiming to be accredited by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA).
“The watchdog says it has learned about a troubling trend of individuals and businesses using falsified licences to deceive the public and carry out unregulated operations, putting lives at risk. The warning comes amid the booming popularity of cannabis-infused products in South Africa, from beverages and snacks to baked goods.” reported Health E-News.
“SAHPRA CEO Dr Boitumelo Semete-Makokotlela says in a statement that the rapid spread of cannabis dispensaries in shopping malls, many of which are openly displaying copies of alleged SAHPRA licences, is concerning.” the outlet also reported.
South Africa is on a short list of countries that have adopted national adult-use cannabis legalization measures. South Africa is joined on the list by Uruguay, Canada, Malta, Luxembourg, and Germany. The Czech Republic also recently announced plans to adopt a national measure.
Additionally, two dozen states in the U.S. have adopted recreational cannabis legalization measures, and regional adult-use cannabis commerce pilot trials are operating in both the Netherlands and Switzerland.
The legal cannabis industry in South Africa is still in its infancy by many measures. However, it has the potential to become a continental and international leader, as discussed in a recent article authored by Johann Slabber, CEO of South Africa-based Nexus Pharma.
“Our unique combination of favourable climate conditions, low-cost agricultural production, and access to skilled labour positions us as a highly competitive player. However, what’s still largely missing is a coherent and visible national narrative.” Mr. Slabber recently wrote for CannaBiz Africa after attending the International Cannabis Business Conference in Berlin, Germany.
“With the right frameworks, storytelling, and international engagement, we have the potential to become a powerhouse in the global cannabis economy.” he also wrote.
