Government has extended the registration deadline to 28 February 2025. Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister, Velenkosini Hlabisa, announced yesterday, giving business owners a bit more time to get everything in order.
This comes after the initial 21-day registration period wrapped up on 17 December 2024. The numbers are in: 42,915 applications received, with 19,385 approved so far.
If you’re wondering why this is so crucial, President Cyril Ramaphosa shed light on the growing concern around foodborne illnesses in his recent address. Since September, over 890 cases have been reported, leading to nearly 30 deaths. This crisis is what prompted the spaza shop registration initiative, which aims to tackle food safety and compliance head-on.
Minister Hlabisa put it plainly: “Before the revised deadline of 28 February 2025, government in all its spheres will continue to implement the action plan to address the crisis of foodborne illnesses and the illicit trade of goods across the country.”
What Does This Mean for You?
If you’ve already registered your business, great! But it’s not over yet. You’ll need to complete an additional step to obtain your trading licence. Environmental health practitioners will inspect your shop to ensure it meets all the requirements.
And remember, registration doesn’t mean automatic approval to trade. Compliance with health regulations and municipal by-laws is non-negotiable. As the Minister explained, “If you don’t comply with the health regulations, the business is closed down immediately. Hence, 1,041 spaza shops have already been closed.”
Support During the Holidays
The Minister has urged municipalities to remain accessible, even as operations slow down during the festive season. Don’t wait until the last minute—continue with the registration process now to avoid the rush in February.
Cracking Down on Illegal Practices
Efforts to ensure compliance aren’t limited to food safety. Authorities are also targeting the illegal trade of pesticides and unsafe goods at ports of entry. Over 470 litres of pesticides have already been seized, and inspections at all 71 ports of entry have been ramped up.
Minister Hlabisa made it clear that illegal activities won’t be tolerated, with the Department of Home Affairs issuing a stern warning. Assisting illegal foreigners to run spaza shops is a serious offence under the Immigration Act, and those caught will face prosecution.
“No one should assist. No one should provide any kind of support,” said Albert Matsaung from the DHA.
What’s Next?
Fifteen health experts have been appointed to a Ministerial Advisory Committee to develop long-term solutions to prevent foodborne illnesses.
So, whether you’re running a spaza shop, tuck shop, or any food-handling outlet, take action now. Let’s all work together to build safer, healthier communities while keeping our businesses thriving.
If you’ve got questions or need assistance, reach out to your local municipality—it’s time to get registered and compliant.