Gauteng Finance and Economic Development MEC Lebogang Maile has issued a stern warning to spaza shop owners who continue to operate without registering. Maile emphasized that those who fail to comply will be caught, citing concerns that some owners believe they can evade detection.
As of now, over 25,000 registration forms have been issued to spaza shop owners, with more than 10,000 submitted so far. The government has extended the registration deadline to February 2025, giving owners more time to comply.
Maile stressed that registration is crucial, especially in light of recent child deaths linked to food-borne illnesses from spaza shops. The government aims to ensure that all spaza shops meet health and safety standards.
In addition to registration, spaza shop owners must also comply with health regulations. Environmental Health Practitioners will inspect registered businesses to ensure they meet eligibility criteria. So far, 1041 spaza shops have been closed for non-compliance.
To register, foreign nationals must provide valid documentation from the Department of Home Affairs, giving them authorization to operate a business in South Africa. This includes a valid business visa or work permit, and proof of a R5 million investment in an existing business or a business plan with evidence of R5 million capital contribution ¹.
Maile also raised concerns that some South African citizens are registering spaza shops on behalf of foreign nationals who are not compliant with the laws of the country. This, he said, makes it difficult for municipalities to compile valid data on enterprises in townships and poses a serious national security challenge ¹.
The registration drive is part of the government’s efforts to ensure that all spaza shops operate within the law and meet health and safety standards. With the extended deadline, spaza shop owners have more time to comply, but Maile’s warning is clear: those who fail to register will face the consequences.
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