Gauteng spaza registration: 1,916 applications submitted as deadline draws near

Spaza Shops

Cape Town – As the deadline for spaza shop registration approaches, Gauteng authorities say they have received only 1,916 completed forms out of 13,616 issued to both local and foreign shop owners since November 15.

This update was provided by Gauteng Finance and Economic Development MEC Lebogang Maile during a briefing in Bramley, Johannesburg, on Wednesday.

“As of December 10, the number of spaza shops issued with registration forms stands at 13,616, of which 1,916 have been returned,” said Maile.

He added: So far 2,605 applications have been issued to non-South African spaza shop owners based on data from the City of Tshwane, Ekurhuleni, West Rand district municipality (comprising Merafong, Rand West City and Mogale City municipalities) and the Sedibeng district municipality (comprising Emfuleni, Midvaal and Lesedi municipalities).”

However, nearly 2,000 applications are incomplete, he said. 

The registration, which aims to reduce food poisoning incidents that have killed over 23 children from consuming contaminated snacks, was initiated by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

The deadline for submission is December 13, 2024.

The registration process has been simplified to avoid bureaucratic delays while ensuring compliance, and some municipalities have digitised their application processes.

However, 541 spaza shops have been closed for non-compliance, including failure to register with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission, lack of health certifications, and unsafe premises.

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