Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za
3-minute read
05 February 2025 | 10:28 CAT

Spaza shop owners now have until 28 February 2025 to register and comply with legal standards.

The National Government has extended the deadline for SPAZA shop registration to 28 February 2025, granting additional time for compliance among food handling outlets. Initially set to close on 17 December 2024, the extension aims to ensure more businesses meet the required legal standards. The City of Johannesburg has welcomed this decision, emphasizing its significance for small business owners.

In an interview with Radio Islam International, City spokesperson Virgil James stressed the importance of the extension, stating that a large number of SPAZA shop owners had failed to meet the necessary legal requirements before the initial deadline. “Most Spaza shop owners were not legally compliant due to missing documents such as SARS certificates, building plans, and zoning approvals,” he said.

The extension allows owners additional time to submit the required paperwork, ensuring their businesses can operate legally. Once verified, applications will be processed at the head office in Braamfontein, where trading certificates will be issued.

James clarified that there is no discrimination against foreign nationals operating SPAZA shops in Johannesburg. He highlighted that Region G has the highest number of such businesses, emphasizing the city’s commitment to assisting all shop owners in complying with regulations.

More than 10,000 registration forms were distributed across seven regions during the initial phase, with over 7,000 inspections conducted by mid-November. However, findings revealed that only 1,732 traders were compliant, while 1,444 failed to meet the requirements. Additionally, 243 shops were shut down until they could reapply and meet the necessary standards.

To boost awareness, the city has initiated joint community engagements with the Gauteng Department of Economic Development. “Our aim is to educate traders on compliance requirements,” James stated. Various information sessions have been scheduled across different regions, with key stakeholders such as Environmental Health, JMPD, and Emergency Services participating.

James underscored the importance of compliance for consumer safety, citing past incidents where children fell ill due to contaminated food. “A registered SPAZA shop ensures customers that products meet health standards. If a shop lacks a compliance certificate, it should be reported,” he advised.

Looking ahead, an online registration system is in development to streamline applications and maintain a comprehensive database of all legally registered SPAZA shop owners. Once launched, this platform is expected to speed up the registration process and improve regulatory oversight.

For now, shop owners are encouraged to visit their nearest municipal office for assistance with registration. By adhering to these requirements, traders can secure their businesses, safeguard customers, and access economic development support programs aimed at fostering long-term growth.

Listen to the full interview on The Daily Round Up with Annia Essack and City Spokesperson Virgil James here