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South Africa is considering reinstating a full ban on the sale of liquor as the number of Covid-19 infections rises during the summer holiday season, said a person familiar with the discussions.
Restrictions on the sale of alcohol have been implemented to varying degrees since one of the world’s strictest closures was imposed in March, in part to reduce hospital admissions for traffic accidents and alcohol-related violence. Still, the government lost tax revenue as a result of an initial ban on any liquor and bar sales and dealers fired.
The ban could begin on Tuesday and last until January 10, said the person, who requested anonymity because the information is not public and a final decision has not been made.
South Africa had a record three days of infections through December 25, when it recorded 14,796 new cases. Health Minister Zweli Mkhize called a day earlier for stricter measures to curb the spread, which has already hit the economy. The number of confirmed cases in the country surpassed 1 million on Sunday.
Tyrone Seale, acting spokesman for President Cyril Ramaphosa, did not immediately respond to a voicemail left on his mobile phone. Phumla Williams, a government spokeswoman, did not immediately respond to voice and text messages.
The government’s National Coronavirus Command Council is expected to discuss a possible alcohol ban, said Lucky Ntimane, convener of Liquor Traders Formations, which represents liquor stores.
“We do not believe that a total ban on the sale of alcohol is a short-term or long-term solution,” the industry group said in a statement.
The liquor merchants coalition proposed curfew measures and alcohol restrictions, if any, that still allow off-site sales to allow for consumption at home. A complete closure of the liquor sale would mean “the end of the tavern market and the 250,000 direct jobs linked to the sector,” he said.
Alcoholic beverage companies operating in South Africa include Anheuser-Busch InBev SA, Diageo Plc, and Distell Group Holdings Ltd.
