The South African Liquor Brand owners Association (SALBA) says the rationale behind government’s decision to ban the sale of alcohol at weekends remains unclear.
President Cyril Ramaphosa on Sunday night announced that the country would move from Alert Level three lockdown to Level two with effect from Monday.
President Ramaphosa addresses the nation on SA’s COVID-19 response:
Following the change, the sale of alcohol from retail outlets for off-site consumption will be permitted between 10am and 6pm from Monday to Friday.
Alcohol sales for on-site consumption will be permitted as per licence conditions up to 10pm. However, alcohol consumption remains prohibited in public spaces.
Meanwhile, the Restaurant Association of South Africa (Rasa) says it is concerned that despite the changes that President Ramaphosa has announced in his address to the nation, the sector will continue to lose jobs.
Non-essential establishments like restaurants, bars and fitness centres will need to close by 10pm.
The association’s CEO Wendy Alberts has bemoaned government’s lack of consultation when making changes.
