SPAZA SHOP OWNERS HAVE UNTIL FRIDAY TO REGISTER THEIR BUSINESSES OR FACE CLOSURE

The South African government has announced a strict deadline for spaza shop owners and food-handling businesses to comply with registration requirements.

The MMC for Development Planning in the City of Johannesburg, Eunice Mgcina, held a meeting with landlords of properties on the Registration of Spaza Shops on Monday in Ivory Park.

Shop owners have until Friday, 13 December 2024, to register their businesses with the relevant municipalities or face closure.

Why Registration is Mandatory

This measure is in response to increasing cases of suspected food poisoning linked to informal food outlets. The government aims to ensure that all businesses meet required standards, protecting public health and improving the overall safety of food handling and distribution.

Failure to register a business by the deadline will result in closure.

How to Register

Spaza shop owners can obtain application forms physically from municipal offices or online via municipal websites. The completed application must include the following information:

• Full name and surname of the business owner

• Gender and ID/passport number

• Disability status (if applicable)

• Postal and physical address

It is emphasized that applications can only be submitted by the business owner to prevent fraudulent activity. Any attempt to register a business on someone else’s behalf will lead to legal consequences.

Registration is straightforward and takes only one day. The government urges shop owners not to delay and avoid waiting until the last minute.

For more details, visit the government’s website at www.sanews.gov.za/features-south-africa/guide-register-spaza-shops.

Compliance with City of Johannesburg By-laws

In Johannesburg, the City of Joburg has issued additional guidelines under the Spaza Shop By-laws, which highlight five key compliance areas:

1. Business Registration:

• All spaza shops must be registered under the Business Act of 1991.

• A valid trading license must be displayed prominently in the shop.

2. Trading Location:

• Shops must operate only in designated trading zones.

• Trading areas should not obstruct pavements, roads, or public spaces.

3. Health and Safety Compliance:

• Cleanliness inside and outside the shop is mandatory.

• Perishable goods must be stored at appropriate temperatures.

• Ventilation and fire safety equipment must be installed.

4. Noise and Nuisance Control:

• Businesses should avoid creating disturbances for the community.

• Waste disposal must be done responsibly to prevent pollution.

5. Signage and Advertising:

• Shop signage requires municipal approval.

• Signage must be clear, well-maintained, and compliant with city regulations.

These by-laws are designed to ensure the smooth operation of spaza shops while maintaining public safety and sanitation.

The registration and compliance processes are vital steps toward formalizing the informal economy and safeguarding community health. Spaza shop owners are encouraged to take action immediately to avoid disruption to their businesses and potential legal consequences.

By adhering to these regulations, shop owners will contribute to a healthier, safer trading environment, ensuring their businesses thrive in compliance with the law.