LEDET extends conversion period on liquor licences

The Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment, and Tourism [LEDET] have extended the conversion period for Liquor Licenses Act. The Liquor Licenses Act change is from the Liquor Act, of 1989 (Act No. 27 of 1989) to the Limpopo Liquor Act, of 2009 (Act No. 5 of 2009).

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“The extension date of the 31st December 2024 hereby supersedes that which was previously stated by Notice 440 of 2023,” the department said.

“To date, the Department can announce that over 50% of liquor licensees have made submissions for conversion of their historical licenses.

“Although such development is pleasing, the Department remains concerned about those licensees who have not forwarded their conversion submission. As a result, they risk a high possibility of trading without a license or contravening regulations as stated within Limpopo Liquor Act No.5 of 2009.”

LIMPOPO LIQUOR LICENCES CONVERSION PERIOD EXTENDED UNTIL DECEMBER

“Those who have submitted, the Department acknowledges your submission and is currently processing all received applications. All those who have made a submission for conversion from the old license will receive confirmation messages. As well as the new license certificates with new licensing conditions in the coming months.”

The Department says they are sharply focused on supporting job creation opportunities within the Province.

“The liquor industry has proven to benefit local economies. Provide sustainable livelihoods for various families across the province while at the same time employing local youth.

“The Department lacks the desire to penalize local based businesses or enforce closure of businesses due to non-conversion of licenses,” they added.

“It is through the conversion extension that we remain hopeful that 100% of our liquor traders will remain operational. Post-31st December 2024.”

The Limpopo Liquor Act was initially challenged by the Sekhukhune Liquor Traders’ Association and the Economic Freedom Fighters in Limpopo.