SAHPRA alerts the public about fake licence holders

Pretoria, 11 June 2025

The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) is warning the public to be vigilant and cautious when engaging with service providers who claim to be licensed by SAHPRA. SAHPRA has learned that individuals and companies are operating unethically by presenting falsified SAHPRA licences to gain public trust and conduct business. 

SAHPRA stresses that the use of fake licences is not only unlawful but also poses serious risks to public health and safety. Members of the public are urged to verify the authenticity of any SAHPRA-issued licence by contacting the Authority directly through the official communication channels or checking on the SAHPRA website, under “Databases and Registers”.

SAHPRA is in the process of sourcing a system that uses barcoding as a means of authenticating these certificates. Furthermore, SAHPRA will also embark on a public outreach campaign, raising awareness on establishing the authenticity of licences. 

SAHPRA alerts the public and stakeholders in the health sector using the SAHPRA website and our social media platforms. 

If you suspect that a provider is using a fraudulent SAHPRA licence, please report the matter immediately to SAHPRA on 0800 204 307 or the web at https://bit.ly/3nrku5t. You may also  fill out the complaint form at Complaints Relating to Medicine and Medical Devices – SAHPRA.

Your vigilance can help prevent harm and hold those responsible to account.  Cannabis Dispensaries are mushrooming in shopping malls, blatantly displaying copies of SAHPRA “licences”, which were issued “authorising” cannabis cultivation and exporting of the cannabis flower. Such licences do not authorise these so-called Cannabis dispensaries. This is also a matter of concern. 

SAHPRA’s CEO, Dr. Boitumelo Semete-Makokotlela, has strongly condemned these unethical practices. “It is highly unethical and illegal for any individual or company to claim SAHPRA authorisation through forged documentation. We take this matter seriously, and we will work with law enforcement agencies to ensure that offenders are dealt with swiftly and decisively.

The public must be protected from such deceptive behaviour,” she stated. 

SAHPRA remains committed to safeguarding public health by regulating health products with integrity, transparency, and accountability. The public is encouraged to engage only with properly licensed and verified providers. 

SAHPRA – Guardians of Health, Champions of Safety