Cape Town is set to become the focal point of global cannabis policy, research, and industry development next week as the International Cannabis Symposium (ICS) 2026 takes place at the prestigious University of Cape Town from 25–27 June.
Under the theme “Back to Basics: Creating Foundational Policy & Law for Equitable Global Cannabis and Hemp”, the symposium will bring together academics, policymakers, legal experts, regulators, researchers, and industry stakeholders from around the world to discuss the future of cannabis and hemp regulation. The event aims to promote evidence-based policymaking, equitable market development, and international collaboration in one of the world’s fastest-evolving industries.
Unlike many cannabis conferences that focus primarily on business opportunities, ICS Cape Town places a strong emphasis on law, policy, research, and social equity. Delegates will explore topics ranging from international cannabis legislation and compliance to medical research, trade standards, patient access, and the role of developing nations in the emerging global cannabis economy.
I will be attending the event on behalf of cuetip.com, the first of many events outside the USA to network,connect and learn from fellow cannabis operators, advocates, and innovators.
“At Cuetip, we’re building apps for global cannabis business operators — and having someone like Chris represent us at ICS, where the foundational rules of this industry are being written, means a lot.” Linkedin.com/in/cuetip
Speaker Spotlight: Steve DeAngelo
One of the most anticipated speakers at the symposium is Steve DeAngelo, widely regarded as one of the pioneers of the legal cannabis movement in the United States.
Often referred to as the “Father of the Legal Cannabis Industry,” DeAngelo has spent more than five decades advocating for cannabis reform, patient access, and social justice. As keynote speaker, he is expected to share valuable insights on the evolution of regulated cannabis markets and the lessons emerging markets can learn from the North American experience.
Speaker Spotlight: Franziska Katterbach
European cannabis regulation will be represented by Franziska Katterbach, a partner at Oppenhoff and one of Europe’s leading cannabis legal advisors.
With extensive experience in life sciences, healthcare, and international cannabis law, Katterbach has played an important role in helping shape regulatory frameworks across Europe. Her sessions are expected to provide valuable perspectives for African policymakers and businesses seeking to understand the rapidly developing European cannabis market.
Speaker Spotlight: Beau Whitney
Economic sustainability remains a major challenge for cannabis businesses worldwide, making the participation of Beau Whitney particularly significant.
As founder and chief economist of Whitney Economics, Whitney has become one of the industry’s most respected voices on market trends, investment, supply chains, and profitability. His presentations are expected to offer practical insights into building economically viable cannabis industries that can support both entrepreneurs and traditional growers.
Why This Event Matters
The symposium arrives at a critical time for South Africa and the wider African cannabis sector. While interest in cannabis and hemp continues to grow across the continent, many countries are still developing the legal and regulatory frameworks needed to support sustainable industry growth.
ICS Cape Town provides a rare opportunity for local stakeholders to engage directly with global experts who have helped shape cannabis regulation in North America, Europe, and Latin America. Discussions will focus on creating policies that encourage economic development while ensuring patient access, social equity, product quality, and responsible regulation.
For cultivators, entrepreneurs, policymakers, researchers, and advocates, the symposium offers more than networking opportunities—it provides a platform to help influence the future direction of cannabis policy and industry development in Africa.
As the global cannabis conversation increasingly shifts toward standards, compliance, and equitable participation, all eyes will be on Cape Town next week as some of the industry’s most influential voices gather to help shape what comes next.
For more information and registration details, visit International Cannabis Symposium Cape Town.