The application process for hemp permits has officially been opened and the department of agriculture, land reform and rural development is calling on all interested growers, researchers, processors and manufacturers to apply.
The announcement made by minister Thoko Didiza follows the declaration of hemp as an agricultural crop under the Plant Improvement Act, no.53 of 1976. This allows for the importation, exportation, cultivation, sale and research of hemp in Mzansi.
It is also on the back of her promise, made in May this year, that her department will begin issuing and monitoring permits in October.
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The act allows for import and export control of certain plants and propagating material, maintaining the quality of such plants and propagating material. As well as ensuring the usefulness of the products thereof for agricultural and industrial purposes.
Reggie Ngcobo, spokesperson for the department, states in a press release that while both hemp and dagga are plants of the same genus, namely cannabis, commercial use of dagga remains prohibited in terms of the Drugs & Drug Trafficking Act 140 of 1992.
“This is a step towards the development of the Cannabis Master Plan, which aims to provide a broad framework for the development and growth of the South African cannabis industry in order to contribute to economic development, job creation, inclusive participation, rural development and poverty alleviation,” Ngcobo states.
According to the department, conservative estimates indicate that 25 000 jobs could be created across the various value chains.
Ngcobo also noted that they are appreciative of the fact that various rural communities and farmers across South Africa have been planting hemp for many years.
These farmers and traders, the department vows, will be prioritised to ensure that the commercialisation of hemp contributes to their socio-economic upliftment.
“We are working with the provincial departments and national departments to ensure that adequate support is provided to producers, including value addition.”
Application forms, guidelines and requirements are accessible on the department’s website at www.dalrrd.gov.za. Click here to access the Plant Production information.
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