Nearly 1 in 5 alcoholic drinks sold in South Africa is illegal: DF-SA study

The Drinks Federation of South Africa (DF-SA) has released new research revealing a sharp increase in the illicit alcohol market, which has grown by 55% in volume since 2017.

The study, conducted by independent research firm Euromonitor International, highlights the escalating impact of illegal alcohol on public health, consumer safety, and national tax revenue.

“This study is a wake-up call,” said Dr. Shamal Ramesar, Head of Research at DF-SA. “Communities are being exposed to harmful, unregulated alcohol, and the country is losing billions in revenue. It is urgent that government, industry, and civil society work together to tackle this issue head-on.” Kaya FM