(Tea, coffee and water will be available)

The illicit liquor trade in South Africa poses a serious threat not only to the economy but also to the health and safety of consumers. This shadowy industry, driven by counterfeit alcohol production and illegal sales, deprives the country of much-needed tax revenue and fuels a dangerous cycle of health risks due to the lack of quality control.

Illicit alcohol often contains harmful substances, making it extremely hazardous. Without regulation or oversight, producers cut corners to increase profits, resulting in products that can cause severe health complications. Counterfeit liquor is frequently packaged to resemble trusted brands, leaving consumers unaware of the dangers lurking in their drinks.

The economic impact is equally alarming. The government loses billions of rand annually due to the unregulated trade, undermining efforts to fund essential services and infrastructure. Furthermore, this illicit market undercuts legitimate businesses, hurting employment and economic growth.

Addressing this issue requires coordinated efforts between government agencies, law enforcement, and the alcohol industry to clamp down on the production and sale of illegal liquor.