South Africa has become the first African country to host what is believed to be the continent’s first cannabis expo.
Dozens of businesses have converged in Pretoria for the four-day event that showcases “innovative products” and businesses that promote the medicinal, agricultural and lifestyle benefits of marijuana.
The expo will also take place in Johannesburg, allowing visitors to meet industry experts, learn about cannabis laws around the world, and get free legal advice.
No cannabis will however be available for consumption at the expo. Visitors were advised to smoke beforehand or risk possible arrest if found with any marijuana.
The exhibition was prices at 10,000 Rand ($694), but has been criticised by some as “elitist.” Others however said the prices was justified.
Local eNCA media outlet quotes Tlotlo Tswaelo, the owner of the Pot Head Apparel clothing brand, to say: “We wanted to be on this platform knowing what it can do. The exposure from this is something we can really benefit from in the future.”
Expo director Silus Howarth added: “If you’re a small business owner, the price of our stands is not that expensive if you consider…what you can make at the Cannabis Expo and how many people you can engage with.”
In September, South Africa’s constitutional court legalised the use and cultivation of cannabis in private spaces. However, the trade and distribution of marijuana remains.
