The Central Drug Authority (CDA) has expressed concern over the Limpopo Liquor Traders Association’s rejection of the proposed trading hour regulations.
CDA explained that the measures are aimed at curbing the harmful effects of alcohol abuse in the province.
The amendment to the Limpopo Liquor Act stipulates that no establishment will be allowed to sell liquor after midnight. The new Act is due to come into effect in January 2025.
Limpopo Economic Development, Environment and Tourism MEC, Rodgers Monama, has contended that alcohol was a contributing factor in gender-based violence, child abuse, community instability, trauma incidents, rape and other crimes in the province.
Operating hours for establishments that sell liquor in the province used to be until 2 am.
In a statement on Wednesday, the CDA emphasised that, while the liquor industry undeniably contributes to 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. Research has consistently demonstrated 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.
“The assertion by liquor traders that trading hours regulations will harm their businesses overlooks the broader societal cost of unregulated alcohol availability. South Africa ranks among the top global consumers of alcohol per capita, with alarming consequences for public health, safety, and economic productivity,” the Central Drug Authority said.
In Limpopo, the rates of alcohol-related gender-based violence, road accidents, and underage drinking, are a stark reminder of the urgent need for tighter controls, the CDA added.
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