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A Comprehensive Guide to Business Trade Licenses in South Africa: Requirements and Application Process

Reference: Published by SME South Africa (26 Sept 2024)

Running a business involves following the rules and regulations that apply to it. While some laws are broad, others are specific to certain industries or sectors. In certain cases, businesses need to obtain special permits to operate in particular areas, known as trade licenses.

A trade or business license is a permit that allows you to legally operate a business in a specific location. This license ensures that your business and its premises comply with all safety, health, and building regulations.

As a business owner, it is crucial to ensure you have the proper licenses and permits in place. Failing to do so can result in hefty fines, and could even jeopardize your business’s ability to operate.

This article explores what a trade license is in South Africa and how to stay compliant.

Why You Need a Business License in South Africa

In South Africa, business licenses and regulations are governed by specific laws. One of the primary legal frameworks overseeing licensing is the Business Act of 1991, which mandates that certain businesses must obtain a trade license before commencing operations.

The Business Act specifies the following key points:

  • A licensing authority may be designated for specific areas by a notice in the Official Gazette.
  • No business may operate in an area governed by a licensing authority without an appropriate trade license or hawker’s license.
  • A license will not be issued if the business premises do not meet local zoning, safety, or health standards.
  • Similarly, a license will not be granted if any equipment, storage facilities, work surfaces, or other elements used for handling or selling food fail to comply with regulations.
  • Licenses may be granted on the condition that businesses make necessary adjustments to meet compliance standards before the final license is issued.

Licensing authorities have the power to suspend or revoke licenses if businesses fail to maintain compliance, and non-compliance with regulations can result in fines or even imprisonment. Additionally, ongoing violations may incur daily penalties.

The Business Act also allows for appeals in cases where license applications are denied or if approval takes longer than 21 days.

Which Businesses Require a Trade License?

Not all new businesses require a trade license, but some, particularly those in the food industry, do. According to the Business Act, the following types of businesses need a trade license:

  • Food establishments
  • Adult entertainment venues
  • Cinemas
  • Nightclubs
  • Arcades
  • Pool halls
  • Hawkers
  • Businesses with three or more vending or slot machines
  • Spas, saunas, and health clinics
  • Public baths and massage parlors
  • Laser and ultraviolet treatment centers

If your business falls into any of these categories, it’s important to ensure that you secure the necessary trade licenses to stay compliant and avoid fines.

How to Apply for a Trade License

To apply for a trade license, you will need to submit an application to the relevant local authority, typically your municipality. The documents required for a new business license application may include:

  • A certified copy of your ID or documentation from the Department of Home Affairs
  • Registration papers from the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC)
  • Lease agreement (for home-based businesses)
  • Liquor license (if applicable)
  • Gambling authority documentation (if applicable)
  • Proof of address
  • Menu (for restaurants)
  • Certificate of acceptability (issued by Municipal Health Services)
  • Fire safety clearance certificate

Renewing Your Trade License

Trade licenses in South Africa are typically valid for 12 months, after which they must be renewed. To renew your trade license, the following documents are generally required:

  • Previous trade license
  • Copy of your ID or relevant documents from the Department of Home Affairs
  • Liquor license (if applicable)
  • Updated menu (if applicable)
  • Gambling authority documentation (if applicable)
  • Fire safety compliance letter
  • Certificate of acceptability for food premises
  • Latest lease or title deed (for home-based businesses)
  • Business registration papers from the CIPC

Having all necessary documents prepared in advance will streamline the renewal process and help ensure your application is not rejected due to missing information.

While managing these legalities may seem like a tedious task, it’s essential to keep your business in good standing. Failing to secure or renew your trade licenses can lead to fines or, in severe cases, the closure of your business.

A Comprehensive Guide to Business Trade Licenses in South Africa: Requirements and Application Process Read More »

South Africa Reintroduces New Smoking Regulations

Reference: Published by Seth Thorne (BusinessTech, 13 Aug 2024)

The Control of Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Bill, which had stalled previously, has been revived by Parliament for further processing. Originally introduced in December 2022, the bill aims to strengthen public health by aligning with WHO’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. The proposed legislation seeks to regulate the sale, advertising, and use of tobacco products and electronic delivery systems, including stricter manufacturing standards, standardized packaging, and banning smoking in indoor public spaces.

Reactions to the bill have been mixed. Supporters, like Dr. Sharon Nyatsanza of the National Council Against Smoking (NCAS), believe it will reduce tobacco use and support public health initiatives like National Health Insurance. Dr. Catherine Egbe of the South African Medical Research Council highlighted the urgent need for the bill, citing the high prevalence of tobacco use and rising e-cigarette use among youth.

However, concerns have been raised about potential job losses, increased illicit trade, and reduced tax revenue. The bill’s economic implications for small traders and tobacco farmers, as well as enforcement challenges, have been debated. The bill’s revival has sparked widespread discussion, reflecting both strong support and significant opposition as it continues through the legislative process.

South Africa Reintroduces New Smoking Regulations Read More »

Navigating New Terrain: The Employment Equity Amendment Act’s Impact

Reference: Published by Staff Writer (BusinessTech), 3 April 2024

The South African Department of Employment and Labour has released Draft Regulations for public commentary, reflecting changes in the Employment Equity Amendment Act signed by President Cyril Ramaphosa in April 2023.

These regulations set out sectoral numerical targets for employment equity, urging employers, especially those with over 50 employees, to align with these new benchmarks to accelerate transformation within the workplace.

Detailed guidance is provided on developing Employment Equity Plans, considering the workforce profile against sector targets and the Economically Active Population data. This approach underscores a strategic move towards more inclusive employment practices, balancing ambition with realism to foster a diverse and competitive workforce.

The consultation period invites stakeholders to contribute to shaping a more equitable employment landscape by May 2, 2024.

For a comprehensive understanding and to contribute to the public comment, visiting the official notice or seeking detailed documentation is advisable.

Navigating New Terrain: The Employment Equity Amendment Act’s Impact Read More »

Playing comes with a price’: Restaurant group faces criminal charges over alleged failure to pay music royalties.

Reference: Published by Anthony Molyneaux (TimesLive), 7 March 2024

A dispute over alleged unpaid music royalties in renowned South African restaurants has resulted in the South African Music Performance Rights Association (Sampra) initiating a criminal case. Sampra has pressed charges against Life and Brand Portfolio, a well-known restaurant group, accusing them of neglecting to pay license fees for the music played in their establishments over the past four years. Notable restaurants under Life & Brand Portfolio include La Parada, Tiger’s Milk, Harbour House, Grand Africa, Lucky Fish and Chips, Live Bait, The Lookout, and Old Town Italy.

According to Pfanani Lishivha, CEO of Sampra, these establishments have been using music unlawfully and refusing to pay the required license fees, preventing recording artists from earning ‘Needletime Rights’ royalties. Sampra, a nonprofit organization, emphasized that the collected license fees are meant to be distributed as ‘Needletime Rights’ royalties to recording artists and record companies.

Despite Sampra’s efforts, Life & Brand Portfolio remains firm in its alleged illegal use of music, leading to a legal case against the group for what is deemed as illegal and unethical conduct. Lishivha expressed concern about the exploitation of artists’ intellectual property, stating that legal action will be pursued against music users refusing to pay ‘Needletime Rights’ license fees in the coming months.

Lishivha criticized Life & Brand Portfolio, accusing them of being content with artists facing financial struggles while their businesses thrive on the exploitation of artistic talents. Sampra is determined to take a stand against such unethical practices, emphasizing that legal action is a last resort but necessary to ensure that recording artists receive their due compensation. Despite being given the opportunity to comment, Life & Brand Portfolio did not respond to questions sent by the group.

Playing comes with a price’: Restaurant group faces criminal charges over alleged failure to pay music royalties. Read More »

South Africa mulls tax hikes on alcohol, vaping, and smoking.

Reference: Published by Luke Fraser (BusinessTech), 16 February 2024

South African excise duties, popularly known as “sin taxes,” are about to be raised by the government. This could result in higher costs for South Africans who indulge in their favorite vices. According to PwC’s estimate for the 2024 Budget, the South African Police Service, and the South African Revenue Service (SARS) have collaborated to recover illicit goods. However, the black market remains a major threat to the country, particularly to cigarettes.

The Transnational Alliance to Combat Illicit Trade (TRACIT) released a report titled “Organised Crime, Illicit Trade and Corruption: Spotlight on South Africa” through Business Unity South Africa (BUSA). The report suggests that the nation’s widespread trade in illicit goods may be costing it close to R100 billion in tax revenue annually. The research attributes the rise in illicit trade to the COVID-19 pandemic, which allowed illegal merchants to expand their operations in the face of government lockdowns, prohibitions, and constraints that affected legitimate markets and led to shortages.

PwC anticipates that new initiatives to stop illicit trading will be included in the 2019 budget in light of these issues. They also demand that the World Health Organization’s treaty, which seeks to outlaw the illegal tobacco trade by 2024, be ratified by the government. PwC further suggests developing a workable track-and-trace system to stop illegal trading.

Right now, PwC genuinely anticipates modest hikes in the excise levies on alcohol and tobacco. The government’s current excise tax policy sets rates at 11% for wine, 23% for beer, 36% for spirits, and 40% for the cost of the most popular tobacco brand, based on weighted retail prices. PwC points to previous budgets that raised tobacco and alcohol excise taxes at rates more than inflation, and they predict that the 2024 budget will announce a similar inflationary increase.

Tax increases on vaping products are also projected. Starting in 2022, the government imposed a fixed excise charge of R2.90 per milliliter on vaping goods that contained nicotine or not. This obligation became operative on June 1, 2023. According to PwC, this commitment will increase in step with inflation.

The government’s goal of stopping illegal commerce and raising tax revenue remains the same, even as South Africans brace themselves for potential increases in sin taxes. When Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana releases his next budget statement, more details about the specific policies and changes that are anticipated will become apparent.

South Africa mulls tax hikes on alcohol, vaping, and smoking. Read More »

Significant blow to new enterprises in South Africa, affecting employment creation.

Reference: Published by Luke Fraser (BusinessTech), 11 February 2024

Due to the hard operating environment, South African entrepreneurs are increasingly unwilling to start new enterprises, limiting the creation of urgently needed jobs.

The Stellenbosch Business School’s 2023 Global Entrepreneurship Monitor South Africa (GEM SA) study shows that South Africa’s early-stage entrepreneurial activity (TEA) has dipped below pre-pandemic levels.

According to the report, the country’s weak economy and insufficient enabling environment for businesses limit entrepreneurship’s potential to boost economic growth, job creation, innovation and technology advancement, and social cohesion.

South Africa did improve its score on the GEM National Entrepreneurial Context Index (NECI), which measures the favourable environment for entrepreneurship and launching a new business, from 46 out of 50 nations in 2021 to 40 out of 51 in 2022.

However, South Africa was one of just three countries where all 13 of the enabling conditions for entrepreneurship were classified as insufficient (scoring less than five out of ten).

GEM Report 2022-2023

“Overall, we are not seeing resilience and recovery of entrepreneurial activity to pre-pandemic levels in South Africa compared to global and African perceptions, although these also are not optimistic,” stated Angus Bowmaker-Falconer, the primary author of

“This is reflective of our poorly performing economy, the impact of the energy crisis and deteriorating transport, logistics and other public infrastructure and service delivery, and the lack of a favourable enabling environment to support business start-up, growth and sustainability.”

The report’s co-author, Associate Professor Natanya Meyer, expressed concern that the intention to start a new firm has dipped below pre-pandemic levels.

“The percentage of adults aged 16-64 intending to start a new business in the next three years declined to 10% in 2023, the lowest in 20 years, after reaching an all-time high of 20% in 2021/22,” Meyer stated in a press release.

TEA, which includes active enterprises less than three years old and new businesses up to three and a half years old, fell from a pandemic high of 17.5% to 8.5% in 2022/23, a significant decrease from the 11% recorded in 2019.

Furthermore, established business ownership (more than 3.5 years) fell nearly half from 3.5% in 2019 to 1.8% in 2022/23, following a big peak of 5.2% during the pandemic years.

“The extent to which the COVID-19 epidemic affected entrepreneurship levels remains unclear. Lockdowns and related restrictions severely affected people’s ability to work and had a negative impact on trade and markets, putting pressure on economies around the world,” Bowmaker-Falconer added.

“At the same time, this crisis presented ‘problems to be solved’, and many new and established businesses pursued these opportunities.”

“In lower-income economies such as South Africa, there was generally less financial support from governments, as well as possibly fewer available jobs and income alternatives, which may have pushed more people into starting their businesses in 2020 and 2021.”

Furthermore, the company departure rate, or the percentage of persons who left their business in the previous year owing to selling or shutting it down, fell to 5% in 2019 from an all-time high of 13.9% in 2020/21, with the pandemic being the primary cause for business owners to leave.

The report also revealed that entrepreneurs had low and diminishing expectations about their company’ ability to create jobs.

In 2019, three out of ten business owners said they planned to hire six or more individuals in the following five years.

However, this figure fell to two in ten by 2022, which Bowmaker-Falconer attributed to the overall dismal economic conditions and enabling environment.

What to improve

Although the report’s findings reflect a bleak image of the condition of entrepreneurship in South Africa, Meyer emphasized that several obstacles arising from the Covid-19 pandemic must be overcome, in addition to the myriad issues faced by the country.

“As can be seen by the featured case studies in the report, South Africans are resilient, and with a better ecosystem environment factors in place, more and better-performing businesses will emerge,” she went on to say.

“Therefore, improving policies and creating a more conducive enabling environment should be a main priority for policymakers and other stakeholders.”

Significant blow to new enterprises in South Africa, affecting employment creation. Read More »

Crafting a Greener Tomorrow: Sustainable Practices in the Bar Industry for a Better Future

Reference: Published by Diageo Bar Academy

Learn how to make your bar more eco-friendly by utilizing sustainable foods, purchasing locally, lowering energy consumption, and more.

IMPROVE SUSTAINABILITY

When it comes to sustainability, the bar and restaurant industry is one of the most wasteful in the world. Many pubs have high levels of food waste, and many venues have a high carbon footprint.

Sean Finter, the founder of Barmetrix, discovered that his establishment wasted 14% of its food, which is likely industry-wide. Spurred on by this worrisome trend, Sean has emerged as a major figure in sustainable bartending.

Sustainability can help boost your bar’s reputation. Customers are more environmentally sensitive than ever, and many prefer to drink and dine at sustainable establishments over others. This allows bar owners that take a more sustainable approach the potential to gain a competitive advantage.

SUSTAINABLE BARTENDING TRENDS

Sustainability is a popular concept in the industry, with many bartenders adjusting their practices to meet the demands of environmentally concerned consumers. Among the main changes we’re seeing in the industry are:

  • Punches in bottles and large-format drinks
  • Cocktails that employ the full plant from root to tip to reduce waste
  • Mixologists are employing sugar substitutes to reduce their dependency on fruits.
  • There is a greater emphasis on seasonal cuisine, so chefs and staff waste less food.
  • Water conservation (the reduction of water waste) is becoming increasingly important.
  • Reducing single-use plastic by replacing plastic straws with paper straws and eliminating flimsy plastic cups.

REDUCING FOOD WASTE

Food waste is a big issue to focus on when reducing your bar’s carbon footprint. To do this, Former World Class Winner Nick Tesar explains simple menu tweaks that will have a huge impact.

Consider presenting seasonal menus, which ensure that all of your ingredients are fresh and easy to farm and create locally.

  • Concentrate on each component to extract the most flavor.
  • You may reduce waste by using fewer ingredients.
  • Make use of components that have several functions. To decrease waste, try making syrups that can be used in many drinks.
  • Batching and freezing can help to extend the shelf life of a component.
  • Remove the garnish; it is generally the most wasted food in a bar. To avoid waste, use an aromatic tincture to provide delicate flavour.
  • Plan your stock so that you only need to order delivery once a week, reducing the distance your ingredients travel.

MAKING SUSTAINABLE DRINKS

Focusing on sustainability when creating your drinks is an excellent approach to make your venue more environmentally friendly. Consider what ingredients you already have in abundance at your venue to guarantee you use them.

Sam Orrock, Eve’s renowned mixologist and Bar Manager, is always in communication with the venue’s kitchen to see what his bartenders may use.

Another option is to use locally obtained ingredients to make your cocktails. This makes your drinks more sustainable and fascinating by highlighting the surrounding region. Sam, for example, frequently gathered fig leaves from a nearby tree for infusion and syrup preparation.

When creating your own sustainable cocktail, try to restrict the use of imported ingredients. Many bars include citrus in their cocktail menus, which has a significant environmental impact in places where it is not native. You can make a significant difference by lowering the amount of cocktails you serve with these ingredients and substituting verjus, vinegar, and acids with a healthier alternative.

NON-FOOD WASTE REDUCTION

Food waste isn’t the only problem that pubs and restaurants cause. The sector also consumes a significant amount of packaging, energy, and other resources. After you’ve taken the effort to make your menu and drinks more sustainable, use Tiny Leaf co-founder Alice Gilsenan’s tips to help you build a waste-free venue like she did.

  • Remove straws – When discarded, plastic straws take over 200 years to degrade. By eliminating straws from your cocktails, you can significantly reduce the cost of your bar.
  • Remove bottles – Use reusable glasses rather of single-use plastic bottles, particularly for water. You can purchase a special water tap that filters local water and serves it still, sparkling, or ionized.
  • Educate your crew – Informing your employees on the importance of sustainability for your venue enables them to make better decisions. They’ll be more environmentally conscious, which will benefit your venue.

Making improvements to your energy usage is another worthwhile endeavor. Many bars can become more sustainable by making simple improvements that increase sustainability while decreasing costs.

Consider installing motion sensors to lights so they only turn on when people are nearby, and replace your lightbulbs with low-energy LEDs.

Water waste can be reduced by installing timers on taps, and automated refrigerator doors can help you save energy. All of these minor changes accumulate and have a significant impact on your sustainability.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Sustainable practices can help your company stand out and attract clients.
  • Food waste is a major problem, but you may improve sustainability by carefully planning your menu and using fewer, more seasonal items.
  • Using ingredients you currently have on hand for your cocktails will help you become a more waste-efficient venue.
  • Minor adjustments, such as removing straws and single-use plastic products, can have a significant and positive impact on your organization.

Crafting a Greener Tomorrow: Sustainable Practices in the Bar Industry for a Better Future Read More »

Liquor Authority Introduces Mandatory Certification for Managers under the Mpumalanga Liquor Licensing Act

In a move aimed at enhancing responsible alcohol management and ensuring compliance, the Liquor Authority in Mpumalanga has introduced a new requirement for certification of managers within liquor establishments.

Under Section 45 of the Mpumalanga Liquor Licensing Act, the Liquor Authority is now mandating a certification process for appointed managers in such establishments. This landmark provision aims to uphold strict standards and accountability in the management of licensed premises.

The certification process is designed to guarantee that managers possess the necessary qualifications and understanding of the regulations governing alcohol sales and consumption. It encompasses a range of responsibilities, including overseeing operations, ensuring compliance with licensing regulations, and promoting responsible alcohol service.

This development emphasizes the commitment of the Liquor Authority to fostering a culture of responsible alcohol consumption across the region. By introducing this certification, the Authority aims to mitigate the potential risks associated with liquor sales and promote safe and responsible practices within licensed establishments.

Applicants for the manager’s certification will need to meet specific criteria outlined by the Act, ensuring they are well-versed in the legal framework and equipped to handle the responsibilities associated with managing a liquor establishment. The certification process is expected to involve comprehensive training, assessments, and adherence to regulatory standards set by the Authority.

According to officials, this initiative aligns with the overarching goal of safeguarding public welfare and promoting responsible alcohol management. Additionally, it signifies a significant step forward in the ongoing efforts to uphold regulatory compliance and enhance professionalism within the liquor industry.

Stakeholders within the liquor trade are urged to familiarize themselves with the new certification requirements outlined in Section 45 of the Mpumalanga Liquor Licensing Act. The Liquor Authority has assured full support and guidance for those navigating this new certification process.

This pivotal measure not only ensures that managers possess the necessary knowledge and expertise but also reinforces the commitment towards a safer and more responsibly-managed liquor environment within the region.

In conclusion, the introduction of the manager’s certification by the Liquor Authority stands as a testament to the continuous efforts to ensure responsible alcohol management and uphold the highest standards of compliance within Mpumalanga’s liquor industry.

Liquor Authority Introduces Mandatory Certification for Managers under the Mpumalanga Liquor Licensing Act Read More »

SARS TAX Rates 2024: What are the SARS TAX Rates & will they rise in 2024?

Reference: Published by Usher (IT Gujarat), 4 January 2024

The individual must pay the South African Revenue Service, which collects and oversees tax compliance. The revenue department is in charge of customs, executive services, and economic protection. Continue reading this article to learn more about the SARS Tax Rates 2024, what it is, the tax rate in 2024, and other important information.

The South African Revenue Service offers a variety of services and taxes policies to taxpayers. The revenue service determines the various tax rates for each fiscal year. These rates are determined by your individual income and corporate earnings.

The tax rates are determined by the Minister of Finance in a yearly budget speech, which is fixed and passed through Parliament each year. Income tax, employers’ tax, turnover tax, transfer duty, and various additional taxes are among the tax rates.

What is the Tax Rate?

A tax rate is a proportion of an individual’s income that must be paid to the federal government as income tax. These rates are calculated based on an individual’s annual income. This is determined by the taxpayer’s income; the higher the income, the higher the tax.

The rates contribute to the construction and maintenance of national infrastructure, as well as the provision of some social services to residents. This is a proportion of an individual’s taxable income that varies according to income and tax bracket.

What are the SARS Tax Rates?

Taxable IncomeTax Rate
R1 to R 237,10018 per cent
R 237,101 to R 370,50026 percent taxation with an additional R42,678
R 370,501 to R 512,80031 percent tax with an additional sum of R 77,362
R 512,801 to R 673,00036 percent tax with an additional sum of R 121,475
R 673,001 to R 857,90039 percent tax with an additional sum of R 179,147
R 857,901 to R 1,817,00041 percent of tax with an additional sum of R 251,258
R 1,817,001 and more than this45 per cent tax with R 644 489

The taxation rates are determined by the fiscal year, which begins on April 1 and ends on March 31. The following are the South African Revenue Service tax rates for 2023-24:

Individual income determines the tax rates. The one who earns more must pay higher taxes. Individuals are obligated to pay 18% of their income in taxes. Along with the tax rate, the individual must pay an additional payment of a percent after R237,100. They are compelled to pay a particular amount of tax based on their income.

Individuals who earn R 1,817.000 or more are liable to pay a 41 percent tax as well as an additional payment of R 644,489. The taxpayer who earned between R 857,901 and R 1 817 000 must pay 41 percent of their earnings plus an additional R 251,258 to SARS.

Will There Be An Increase in 2024?

Every year, the government sets different tax rates for taxpayers. As a result, there will be certain specific modifications in taxing rates in 2024. These rates change depending on economic growth, population, SASSA funds, public employee compensation, and other factors.

The South African Revenue Service calculates rates based on inflation. Taxpayers’ contributions aid the nation’s social and economic prosperity. The eligible beneficiaries receive their government benefits through this income. The government must publish the new tax rate; for March 31, the taxation rate will be the same as the present year, after which the government will offer a new taxation rate for another fiscal year. The taxpayer will learn about their new tax rates, which are based on social and economic growth.

SARS TAX Rates 2024: What are the SARS TAX Rates & will they rise in 2024? Read More »

Significant changes to South African alcohol laws are still on the way, including a drive to raise the drinking age.

Reference: Published by Luke Fraser (BusinessTech), 25 October 2023

The government will review the Liquor Amendment Bill, according to Social Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu.

Zulu stated during the Bi-Annual Global Alcohol Policy Conference (GAPC) that there was a strong push to enact the Liquor Amendment Bill.

“I hear you, and the message is ‘Pass the Liquor Amendment Bill now.'” [We] take note of what has been given to us here by the Department of Social Development and all other government officials. “This is a positive message, and it tells us that when you stand up to speak to us, we must listen,” Zulu added.

The Department of Trade and Industry first proposed the Bill in 2016, with numerous significant revisions, including:

  • Raising the drinking age to 21 years old;
  • The implementation of a 100-metre radius commerce restriction around educational and religious establishments;
  • Alcohol sales and advertising on social and small media are prohibited.
  • The addition of a new liability clause for alcoholic beverage retailers.

Despite multiple reconsiderations, the Bill has not moved forward to formal introduction.

Due to the detrimental consequences of alcohol during the nation’s Covid-19 shutdown, President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Cabinet examined the Draft Liquor Amendment Bill in February 2021, but this appeared to have gone to naught.

Other plan

According to Zulu, drinking has an especially negative impact on the population.

“While we are concerned about the harm that all drugs have on individuals, families and or society as a whole, there is a significant body of evidence from research institutions such as the South African Medical Research Council and Soul City that suggest that alcohol is one of the most abused substances that causes the most harm to the most people in our country,” Zulu said in a statement.

She went on to say that alcohol causes crime, higher mortality rates, automobile accidents, and more gender-based violence.

“In light of these mounting challenges, our people have demanded that the government take the necessary steps to combat the harmful use of alcohol.” “I must admit that this has not been the easiest task,” she remarked.

“Any measures to prevent and reduce alcohol harm has been met with a monumental and well-resourced pushback that seems to put commercial interests before people from the alcohol industry.”

“We saw this when, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the government implemented measures to contain the spread of the coronavirus, including measures to reduce the impact of alcohol on health-care resources.” Liquor retailers in Limpopo Province have resisted the government’s proposals to ban the sale of alcoholic beverages after midnight.”

Despite these obstacles, the minister stated that Cabinet has authorized the Draft Policy on the Prevention and Treatment of Substance Use Disorders for public engagement.

The policy examines where the most drug-related harms occur and the best approaches to alleviate them.

She also stated that Cabinet suggested the formation of a special committee of Ministers to ensure cross-government coordination in harm prevention and reduction efforts.

Although the policy has not yet been gazetted, SA Legal Academy believes Zulu is referring to work by the Department of Trade and Industry on developing ‘alcohol consumption legislation’ and amending the Liquor Act, 2003, which was mentioned in May of this year.

Significant changes to South African alcohol laws are still on the way, including a drive to raise the drinking age. Read More »