South Africa: South Africa Again Suspends the Sale and Distribution of Liquor While Permitting Exports
On July 12, 2020, South Africa reintroduced the suspension on the sale, dispensing and distribution of liquor with immediate effect. The first alcohol sales and transportation prohibition was implemented from the beginning of April until June 1, 2020, and resulted in revenue losses of about R18 billion (US$ 1.1 billion) by the domestic industry. Consequently, the measure caused United States liquor exports to South Africa to lag by 35 percent in 2020. United States liquor exports, which are usually about US$ 21 million annually, are under threat due to this recent prohibition. Notably, the ban does not impact exports, as they remain permitted.
