The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have introduced a Private Member’s Bill in the National Assembly aimed at banning alcohol advertising across all forms of media in South Africa.
The proposed Liquor Amendment Bill, presented by EFF MP Veronica Mente, seeks to amend the Liquor Act of 2003 by prohibiting the advertising, promotion, and product placement of alcohol. It also aims to restrict the use of brand elements, company names, and sponsorships associated with alcohol at organized events.
The EFF argues that this legislation is necessary to prioritize public health and social stability over the profits of alcohol companies. They contend that pervasive marketing has normalized alcohol consumption, portraying it as a marker of success, sport, and leisure, which has harmful societal consequences.
“Bright and attractive adverts target even young children, who grow up associating alcohol with success, sport, and leisure,” the EFF stated.
The party emphasized the social costs of alcohol abuse, including broken families, rising levels of gender-based violence, road deaths, and increased pressure on the public health system. They claim that corporations evade accountability through effective advertising and irresponsible promotion while society bears the burden of alcohol-related harm.
The EFF has called on the Speaker of the National Assembly to refer the Bill to the Portfolio Committee on Trade, Industry, and Competition and urged the committee to expedite its processing. “Parliament must demonstrate seriousness in responding to the crisis of alcohol abuse by ensuring that this Bill proceeds without obstruction,” they stated.
Additionally, the EFF has appealed to all political parties, civil society organizations, and communities to support the legislation. “We urge parents, educators, and communities who care about the future of South Africa to back this Bill,” they added.
If passed, this legislation would represent a significant shift in South Africa’s regulatory framework, imposing sweeping restrictions on alcohol advertising similar to those currently applied to tobacco products.