A sense of ease has prevailed across the country as Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Velenkosini Hlabisa announced an extension of the spaza shop and business registration process to 28 February 2025. The announcement was made earlier today at a media briefing that took place in Pretoria, which according to Hlabisa, was taken in consultation with President Cyril Ramaphosa to allow business owners additional time to ensure compliance.
To date, Mogale City has received a total of 777 business and licensing applications. Business owners who have not yet complied are urged not to wait until the extension deadline but to promptly visit the Local Economic Development offices to submit their application.
The minister also stressed that municipalities must follow a strict process before issuing trading licenses, which include:
- Dispatching Environmental Health Inspectors and regulators to check the business location and inspect the food related business to ensure eligibility to trade
- Verify that the spaza shop/business complies with all the required health standards
The minister further instructed municipalities to immediately shut down any spaza shops or businesses providing false information, engaging in fronting, or failing to meet health standards.
Mogale City takes note of all the directives issued by the minister and in collaboration with its Public Safety and other partners, will ensure alignment in its efforts to ensure full compliance.