Time is running out for spaza shop owners to register their businesses with the government.

The Steve Tshwete Local Municipality has urged spaza owners to register their business before February 28.

The municipality and its partners conducted random inspections at stores, and at least 20 businesses have been closed down due to not following regulations.

The president announced last year that all spaza stores should be registered due to the increased concern raised by citizens about children dying from foodborne illnesses. All the children had bought snacks at spaza shops.

The initiative is in line with the National Consumer Commission Inspection to prevent foodborne illnesses and to ensure that the business is currently taxed.

The municipality has closed down spaza shops throughout the different wards.

During the inspections, government workers found that some shopkeepers were sleeping inside the stores, and others were stealing expired goods.

The goods were confiscated, and the stores were shut down.

The municipality will continue with the operation.

Spaza shop owners are urged to visit the municipal offices to avoid closure and fines.