SA liquor industry scrambles to avoid another ban on alcohol sales
By Siphelele Dludla
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JOHANNESBURG - THE SOUTH African liquor industry has warned the government of the potential negative impact on economic recovery and jobs if another ban on the sale of alcohol is imposed.
Fears within the industry have been growing since three provinces officially declared a third wave of Covid-19 infections, as this could prompt the government to implement stricter lockdown measures.
The tavern sector is worth over R60 billion annually, accounting for 80 – 90 percent of liquor sales in townships, and approximately 43 percent of total alcohol sales.
A coalition of liquor traders has written to President Cyril Ramaphosa seeking his audience to help find sustainable solutions to combat the pandemic without banning alcohol.
Reitumetse Makwea President Cyril Ramaphosa. Picture: Jairus Mmutle/GCIS With a looming third wave, another family meeting is on the cards as President Cyril Ramaphosa chairs the National Coronavirus Command Council today amid growing calls for an address on the country’s latest Covid-19 developments. Although the National Liquor Traders Council and the Liquor Traders Association of South Africa coalition pleaded to be consulted over any future lockdowns which may affect them, experts have advised that now might be the time for South Africa to up its vaccination game. The liquor industry also wants to ensure any decisions impacting alcohol prohibitions are guided by scientific evidence. According to acting deputy.
Liquor traders request meeting with Ramaphosa over potential alcohol sales ban The National Liquor Traders Council and the Liquor Traders Association of South Africa are worried another alcohol sales ban could be implemented. FILE: With coronavirus infections increasing yet again, lockdown curbs are likely to be bolstered. Picture: 123rf.com
CAPE TOWN - Two organisations representing liquor traders have written to President Cyril Ramaphosa requesting a meeting.
The National Liquor Traders Council and the Liquor Traders Association of South Africa are worried another alcohol sales ban could be implemented.
With coronavirus infections increasing yet again, lockdown curbs are likely to be bolstered.