Beer association welcomes president’s easing of lockdown regulations

The Beer Association of South Africa (Basa) says it cautiously welcomed the President’s announcement to move the country to adjusted level 2 from Monday.

On Sunday, President Cyril Ramaphosa said alcohol sales will be permitted from 10:00 to 18:00, Monday to Friday.

He said alcohol sales for on-site consumption will be permitted as per license conditions up to 22:00.

“Alcohol remains prohibited in public spaces. This will be reviewed in two weeks,” said Ramaphosa during his announcement.

In its statement, Basa said the further easing of restrictions will provide some reprieve to businesses that have survived the four alcohol bans, which forced the industry to shut down for 161 days since March last year, putting about 240 000 jobs at risk.

“However, with a Covid-19 fourth wave expected to hit at the beginning of December, any recovery seen in the sector will be eradicated should another ban be enforced by the government over the festive season.

“With this period also being the busiest time for liquor outlets and establishments, another alcohol ban will no doubt be the final nail in the coffin for thousands of businesses and the jobs they support,” it said.

“Basa, therefore, continues to call for proper consultations by the government before considering any new regulations to stop the spread of Covid-19 over the coming months.

“Our industry, and the over 450 000 livelihoods it supports, can simply not afford the President announcing another immediate ban on the legal trade of alcohol without any prior warning or an opportunity to properly engage with government.”

Basa said the beer industry will continue rolling out reasonable interventions that can save both lives and livelihoods during the pandemic.

“We call on all liquor outlets and establishments to continue playing their part by enforcing the wearing of masks and social distancing in their establishments.

“We also call on consumers to drink in moderation and continue taking the necessary precautions to protect themselves and others from Covid-19.

“Finally, we also encourage all South Africans over the age of 18 years to get vaccinated. This is the only way we will be able to fully reopen the economy and resume our normal lives.”