NLTC opposes the alcohol Ad ban, in demand of lasting solutions

image: Internet

by Kelebogile Matlou

Deputy President Paul Mashatile recently expressed concerns about the problem of youth substance abuse in South Africa, but the National Liquor Traders Council (NLTC) has opposed the concept of banning alcohol advertising as a way to reduce it. The discussion follows the introduction of the Liquor Amendment Bill in Parliament, which aims to outlaw the placement, promotion, and advertising of alcoholic beverages on all media channels.

The Deputy President emphasized that substance addiction damages young people and contributes to increased unemployment and criminality. Critics argue that alcohol advertising encourages young people to drink. 

However, NLTC convenor Lucky Ntimane insists that prohibiting alcohol advertising is a “short-sighted” option that might worsen unemployment. He emphasized that the country’s economy is already growing at less than 1% per year, with 37% of black South Africans unemployed and around three million graduates without work.

“We argue that, while alcohol and drug usage contribute to unemployment, outlawing advertising will exacerbate unemployment in our country. What we need is a long-term solution that addresses substance abuse while also protecting and sustaining job creation,” said Ntimane. 

The Liquor Amendment Bill also directs the state to combat the normalization of alcohol use and prevent liquor-related harm by limiting visibility and usage.