The Central Drug Authority (CDA) has noted with concern the rejection of the proposed trading hours regulations aimed at curbing the harmful effects of alcohol abuse in Limpopo.
This after the Limpopo Liquor Traders Association, which rejected the proposal, said the envisaged regulations will have a financial impact on their member’s businesses.
CDA’s Deputy Chairperson Nomcebo Dlamini said it is indisputable that the liquor industry contributes immensely to the province’s economic activity.
“It is equally imperative to address the devastating social and health consequences linked to alcohol misuse.
The proposed regulation of trading hours is not a punitive measure against liquor traders but a well-considered step to mitigate the pervasive negative impacts of alcohol abuse,” said Dlamini.
She called on all stakeholders involved not to limit their contributions only on financial returns of their business.
“The assertion by liquor traders that trading hour’s regulations will harm their businesses overlooks the broader societal cost of unregulated alcohol availability,” added Dlamini.
Dlamini emphasized that the decision was predicated by research that showed that restricting alcohol availability through regulated trading hours is an effective strategy to reduce alcohol-related harm, including binge drinking, road fatalities, domestic violence, and underage drinking.
According to reports, alcohol abuse in South Africa, including Limpopo, is not solely an issue for liquor traders, but a societal problem that requires collective action, with regulating trading hours as one of many tools to reduce alcohol availability and its associated harm, particularly for vulnerable groups such as women, children, and young adults.
South Africa ranks among the top global consumers of alcohol per capita, with alarming consequences for public health, safety, and economic productivity.
In addition, Dlamini said the rates of alcohol-related gender-based violence, road accidents, and underage drinking are a stark reminder of the urgent need for tighter controls.
