The move was aimed at improving food safety oversight in the informal retail sector, which serves as a critical source of everyday goods in townships and informal settlements across the country. For shop owners, registration also opened the door to formal support programmes not previously accessible to unregistered informal traders.
Source: South African Government
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the registration requirement come about?
It followed public concern over food safety incidents linked to informal food outlets, prompting government action to bring more oversight to the sector.
Does registration cost spaza shop owners anything?
Requirements and any associated costs are set at a municipal level, so they can vary by area — checking with your local municipality is the best way to confirm what applies to your shop.
How can a spaza shop owner run their business more efficiently day to day?
The Spaza Shop & Informal Trader Stock & Cash-Up Toolkit helps track stock, daily cash-ups and supplier costs without needing formal accounting experience.