AGRICULTURAL

LAW AND TYPE OF NOTICE

PRESERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF AGRICULTURAL LAND ACT:

Regulations: Comments invited

G 54417 GoN 7306

– Comment by 08 May 2026

27 March 2026

APPLIES TO: 

Anyone who plans, authorises, develops, manages, monitors, advises on, or enforces activities that affect agricultural land and agro‑ecosystems in South Africa must comply with these regulations once they come into force.

SUMMARY

The Department of Agriculture gazetted and called for public comments on draft regulations under the yet-to-be-commenced 2024 Preservation & Development of Agricultural Land Act, which seeks to ensure that viable agricultural land is available and actively used to its optimal potential to support long-term food production through sustainable farming practice.

Underpinned by a commitment to ‘efficient administration and fair decision making’, among other things the draft regulations cover: the criteria to be met by provincial governments when developing agricultural sector plans; the requirements to be met and procedures followed when applying for agro-ecosystem authorisations, including associated timeframes; functions to be performed by agricultural and related professionals during the agro- ecosystem application authorisation process; activities that may be commenced without an agro-ecosystem authorisation and compliance monitoring.

Compliance inspection, including:

• • the use of technology
  • the appointment of an external specialist
  • reporting requirements, and
  • contravention notices and related procedures, and

• the appeals process and related procedures.

Provision is also made for the development of:

• compliance-related norms and standards, and
• a national agro-eco information system.

On 27 March 2026, the Minister of Agriculture published draft regulations under the Preservation and Development of Agricultural Land Act, 2024 (Act 39 of 2024) for public comment. Interested parties have 60 days from publication to submit written comments.

Purpose of the Regulations

The regulations operationalise the Act by:

• Setting out how agricultural land must be planned, protected and developed, and
• Introducing a formal agro‑ecosystem authorisation system for listed agricultural activities.

They aim to ensure sustainable agricultural land use, protect agro‑ecosystems, and align development with national and provincial agricultural priorities.

Key Elements of the Draft Regulations

1. Provincial Agricultural Sector Plans

• Provinces must prepare formal agricultural sector plans.
• Plans must include:
  • strategic initiatives and action steps,
  • responsible authorities,
  • funding sources,
  • implementation timelines,
  • governance structures, and
  • monitoring and reporting frameworks.

• Plans must promote coordination across public, private and voluntary sectors, capacity‑building, proper sequencing, and measurable outcomes.

2. Agro‑ecosystem Authorisation System

• Certain listed agricultural activities may not commence without an agro‑ecosystem authorisation.
• Applications:
  • Go to the Director‑General for activities in national protected agricultural areas.
  • Go to the provincial Head of Department for activities outside national protected areas.

• Applications require a fee (to be set by the Minister).

3. Public Participation and Impact Assessment

• Applications must include:
  • assessment of environmental, agricultural and socio‑economic impacts,
  • public consultation and participation records,
  • alignment with the relevant provincial agricultural sector plan,
  • maps and spatial data as prescribed by the Act.

A detailed agro‑ecosystem report must accompany applications, covering water, climate, soil, vegetation, land use, infrastructure, market and farming systems information.

4. Professional and Specialist Inputs

• Mandatory involvement of registered professionals, including:
• • soil scientists,
  • agricultural scientists,
  • agricultural economists,
  • environmental specialists.
• A signed agricultural compliance statement must confirm:
• • independence,
  • site sensitivity,
  • feasibility of development,
  • mitigation measures,
  • acceptability of the proposed activity.

5. Monitoring, Compliance and Enforcement

• Authorities may use technology (remote sensing, drones, GIS) to monitor compliance.
• Inspectors may be assisted by external specialists.
• Contraventions trigger formal inspection reports, remediation directives and enforcement actions.
• Compliance monitoring continues after authorisation is granted.

6. Appeals Process

• Applicants may appeal decisions within 30 days.
• Appeals may be:
  • decided directly by the Minister, or
  • heard by an advisory appeal panel.

• Legal representation is allowed.
• Appeal fees may be refunded if the appeal succeeds.

7. National Agro‑eco Information System

• Establishes a national spatial and administrative information system containing:
  • authorisation records,
  • compliance and enforcement data,
  • geo‑referenced land‑use and agricultural datasets.

• Data must comply with national spatial standards and be interoperable with other government systems.

8. Commencement

• The regulations will come into force on the date of publication in the Government Gazette once finalised.

Why This Matters

If finalised:

• Agricultural developments will face new permitting, assessment and compliance requirements.
• Developers, landowners and agribusinesses will need to plan for longer approval timelines and higher technical input costs.
• Provincial planning alignment and professional certification will become critical compliance risks.

FULL TEXT

DETAILS

DEPARTMENT OF EMPLOYMENT AND LABOUR

NO. 7306 27 March 2026

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

PRESERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF AGRICULTURAL LAND ACT, 2024 (ACT NO. 39 OF 2024)

REGULATIONS IN TERMS OF THE PRESERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF AGRICULTURAL LAND ACT, 2024

The Minister of Agriculture intends, in terms of section 35 of the Preservation and Development of Agricultural Land Act, 2024 (Act No. 39 of 2024), to make the regulations in the Schedule.

Interested persons are invited to send written comments on the proposed regulations within 60 days from the date of publication of this notice to the Minister, using the following Email: pdala@nda.gov.za

…………………………………………………

MR JOHN STEENHUISEN, MP

MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE

SCHEDULE

Definitions

1. In these Regulations any word or expression to which a meaning has been assigned in the Act shall have the meaning so assigned and, unless the context indicates otherwise-

“Act“ means the Preservation and Development of Agricultural Land Act, 2024 (Act No. 39 of 2024).

Criteria for development and compilation of provincial agricultural sector plans

2. In developing provincial agricultural sector plans, the MEC must-

(a) define the identified strategic initiatives;

(b) define action steps envisaged;

(c) identify those responsible for implementation;

(d) identify other entities that need to be involved and their manner of participation or consultation;

(e) identify resources and sources required including financial resources;

(fj specify timelines for implementation;

(g) define the coordinating / management structure to support all entities involved; and

(h) specify the reporting framework for monitoring and evaluation of the programmes and projects.

3. In compiling provincial agricultural sector plans, the MEC must / shall take the following into account:

(a) Coordination among various entities from the public and private sectors as well as voluntary organizations involved in the implementation of the plans;

(b) goal orientation among entities contemplated in paragraph (a) to achieve universal benefits and not only sectoral interests;

(c) capacity building at all levels relating to advanced scientific knowledge and greater participation in project implementation;

(d) proper definition of the implementation process;

(e) proper sequencing of implementation actions with necessary support actions; and properly structured monitoring and evaluation system.

Structure of Provincial Agricultural Sector Plan

4. The structure of a provincial agricultural sector plan must be as follows:

(a) Executive summary

(b) Chapter 1: Introduction

(c) Chapter 2: Legislative and Policy Framework

(d) Chapter 3: Agro-ecosystems, Resources and Socio-economic Assessments

(e) Chapter 4: Current Agricultural Performance and Trends

(f) Chapter 5: Strategic Framework for Agricultural Development

(g) Chapter 6: Institutional Arrangements and Governance

(h) Chapter 7: Financial Framework and Investment Plan

(i) Chapter 8: Implementation Plan

(j) Chapter 9: Monitoring and Evaluation

Applications for agro-ecosystem authorizations

5. (1) An application for agro-ecosystem authorization in respect of listed activity within a national protected agricultural area must be made to the Director-General. Email: pdala@nda.gov.za or hand delivered with all the required supporting documents to Room MGF-01, Agriplace Building, 20 Steve Biko Road, Department of Agriculture, PRETORIA 0001.

(2) An application for agro-ecosystem authorization in respect of listed activity within an area of a province falling outside a national protected agricultural area must be made to the HoD or hand delivered with all

required supporting documents to the designated provincial office of the province in which the land is located.

(3) Applications contemplated in subregulations (1) and (2) shall be accompanied by an application fee as determined by the Minister by notice in the Gazette.

(4) Applications in this regulation must include the following information:

(a) whether the listed activity falls under the jurisdiction of or impacts on one or more organs of state;

(b) the potential impact of a listed activity and its significance;

(c) findings and recommendations, if any, on the potential impact of a listed activity;

(d) the general objectives of agro-ecosystem management laid down in the Act;

(e) public information and participation procedures providing interested parties including organs if state with a reasonable opportunity to participate in those procedures; and

(f) any information and maps complied in terms of section 16(4) of the Act.

Requirements for applications for agro-ecosystem authorisations

6. (1) Before an application for agro-ecosystem authorization is made, the applicant must be aware of and have information on:

(i) activities which may not commence without an agroecosystem authorization from competent authorities;

(ii) agricultural areas in which listed activities may not commence without an agro-ecosystem authorization from the competent authority;

(iii) agricultural areas in which listed activities may be excluded from agro-ecosystem authorization by the competent authority; and

(iv) activities which may commence without an agroecosystem authorization.

(2) The application must include the following information on any procedure relating to public consultation and information gathering:

(a) how interested and affected parties were invited to participate and how they participated;

(b) how organs of state were consulted; and

(c) the reasonable opportunity given to parties to participate in the process of consultation.

(3) The application must include the following information relating to applicable provincial agricultural sector plan:

(a) the plan’s priority programmes;

(b) its coordination of various entities involved;

(c) its actions plans; and

(d) how authorization will contribute to the above.

(4) The application for authorization must include any other information

(a) as may be required by the competent authority during the consideration of an application; and

(b) which must be furnished within the timeframes indicated by the competent authority.

(5) The applicant must furnish any report as may be required by a

competent authority.

Contents of reports to be submitted with agro-ecosystem authorization application

7. The agro-ecosystem report to be submitted with an application for agoecosystem authorization must include the following information additional to information contemplated in regulation 6:

(a) socio-economic information on-

(i) demographics relating to the population and poverty status;

(ii) agricultural products relating to production, markets, commercial or industrial.

(b) water information and maps on water resources such as rivers, estuaries, dams, wetlands, boreholes and pans, allocated water rights, water yield and water quality;

(c) climatic information and maps on mean annual rainfall and mean annual temperatures, frost hazard and heatwave hazard;

(d) soil and geological information and maps including soil classification, soil degradation, and related soil assessment information;

(e) vegetation information and maps including vegetable types, species composition, vegetation condition and degradation inclusive of alien and invasive plants and bush encroachment;

(fj topographies information and maps on elevation, slope and terrain.

(g) agricultural and nonagricultural land use, current and past land use for the last five years;

(h) infrastructure information and maps including agricultural infrastructure as well as general infrastructure such as roads, electrical and health posts;

(i) market information;

(j) farming systems information such as rainfed, irrigation, conservation agriculture and organic farming ;

(k) key challenges and opportunities;

(l) impact of and the monitoring and management of consequences for and impacts on the agro-ecosystem functionality and agricultural production potential;

(m) the assessment of the effectiveness of arrangements contemplated in paragraph (j) after their implementation; and

(n) any agro-ecosystem attributes identified in the information and maps contemplated in section 16(4) of the Act ;

(o) Locality description and coordinates of affected area; and

(p) site development map indicating development footprints.

Activities that may be commenced without agro ecosystem authorisations

8. The activities that may be commenced without agro-ecosystem authorization will be published by the Minister of Agriculture in the Government Gazette.

Period within which specified agro-ecosystem authorization applications may be considered

9. (1) Where an application for agro-ecosystem authorization lacks required supporting information, 30 days from the date the information is called upon by competent authority.

(2) Where information is not furnished within time frame indicated in the request notice, application will be deemed to have been closed within 3 months from date of request for information.

Information to be contained in a national agro-eco information system

10. The following information must be contained in a national agro-eco information system:

(a) information on preservation, development, use and management of agricultural land;

(b) information on implementation, management and administration of the Act; and

(c) all information contemplated in section 26 of the Act. Appeals against decisions on applications for authorisations

11. (1) An appeal against a decision on an application for agro-ecosystem authorization must be in the form of a written notice to the Minister.

(2) The appeal must be lodged within 30 days from the date on which the applicant was notified of the decision made.

(3) The notice of appeal contemplated in subregulation (1) must-

(a) be submitted to the office of the Director-General; Agriculture Place, 20 Steve Biko (formerly Beatrix) Road, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0001. The postal address is Private Bag X250, PRETORIA, 0001.

(b) be accompanied by a fee as determined by the Minister by notice in the Gazette; and

(c) clearly state the grounds on which the appeal is based in addition to any supporting document/s.

(4) If the Minister appoints an advisory appeal panel as contemplated in section 8 of the Act, the notice of appeal must also be submitted to the advisory appeal panel by the Minister.

The manner in which an appeal by an advisory appeal panel is heard

12. (1) If the appeal is heard by an advisory appeal panel-

(a) the appeal must be heard by all members of the advisory appeal panel;

(b) the person lodging the appeal may be represented by a legal practitioner;

(c) the advisory appeal panel may subpoena and question any person who may be able to give information relevant to the subject matter of the appeal;

(d) the advisory appeal panel may administer oath or accept an affirmation from any person called to give evidence;

(e) the majority decision of the advisory appeal panel is the decision of the advisory appeal panel;

(f} the advisory appeal panel must give its decision and the reasons thereof in writing, and such decision constitutes a recommendation to the Minister on the appeal; and

(g) the advisory appeal panel must keep minutes containing a summary of the proceedings of every hearing.

(2) If the Minister does not appoint an advisory appeal panel-

(a) the appeal is heard by the Minister in terms of section 30(1) of the Act; and

(b) the appeal must be considered on paper by the parties making written submissions and a decision made in respect thereof,

Fees refunded to appellant who succeeds on appeal to the Minister

13. If an appeal succeeds-

(a) and the decision appealed against is wholly set aside, the appellant must be refunded the entire fee paid in respect of the appeal;

(b) but the decision is varied, only a part of the fee as determined by the Minister shall be refunded to the appellant; and

(c) Refund application must be submitted to the Directorate responsible for the administration of the Act.

Use of technology for compliance inspection

14. Technological tools such as remote sensing, drone surveillance, geographic information system and others may also be used for monitoring compliance of agroecosystem land use from the distance.

Appointment of external specialist to perform compliance inspection

15. (1) External specialist may be appointed by Department to assist inspectors in the performance of their compliance inspection functions if there is suspicion of contravention.

(2) Contravention report must be submitted by inspector who may be assisted by an external specialist to Department after execution of compliance inspections within specified form and time frame.

Designation or appointment of inspectors

16. A written designation or appointment of an inspector as contemplated in section 31(1)(b) of the Act must-

(a) be in the form of a letter or card, both confirming such designation or appointment; and

(b) be always carried during the carrying out of duties by an inspector.

Delivery of contravention notice

17. A directive issued in terms of section 32(3)(d) of the Act may also be issued by means of an electronic mail system and the electronic mail system must be accompanied by a short message service on phone number provided in the application for authorization.

Compliance inspection report

18. A compliance inspection report must include the following information:

(a) Status of compliance;

(b) The nature of the contravention;

(c) The legal provisions being contravened;

(d) The remedial actions required;

(e) Deadline required for rectifying contravention;

(fj Evidence of contravention; and

(g) Enforcement action

Monitoring compliance with agro-ecosystems authorisations

19. (1) An application for agro-ecosystem authorization must include an agricultural compliance statement prepared by soil scientist or agricultural specialist duly registered with a regulatory professional body.

(2) An agricultural compliance statement must contain the following information:

(a) contact details and relevant experience of as well as registration number of the soil scientist or agricultural specialist preparing the statement;

(b) a signed statement of independence;

(c) a map showing the proposed development footprint with a 50m buffered development envelope;

(d) confirmation from the specialist that all reasonable measures have been taken through micro-siting to avoid or minimize fragmentation and disturbance of agricultural activities;

(e) a substantiated statement from the soil scientist or agricultural specialist on the acceptability or not of the proposed development and a recommendation on the approval, or not, of the proposed development;

(fj Monitoring compliance by competent authorities; and

(g) Other expertise additional to soils scientists.

Efficient administration and fair decision making

20. The following principles apply to the administration and fair decision making on applications for agro-ecosystem authorisations:

(a) applications must be processed within prescribed timeframes;

(b) if an application is refused, the applicant must be promptly informed of the reasons for the decision; and

(c) the applicant may be required to invite comments from affected parties and submit all responses received together with the application.

Functions to be performed by professionals

21. (1) The following functions must be performed by agricultural and related professionals in relation to processing of agro- ecosystem authorizations:

(a) site sensitivity verification to be undertaken by an environmental assessment practitioner or a specialist;

(b) the activity impact on agricultural resource by a soil or agricultural scientist;

(c) agricultural agro-ecosytem assessment by a soil or agricultural scientist;

(d) change in productivity for agricultural activities and change in employment figures by an agricultural economist;

(e) confirmation that all reasonable measures have been considered in the micro-siting of the proposed development by soil scientist or agricultural specialist.

(2) Other professionals performing functions include:

(a) agricultural development professionals;

(b) agricultural economists;

(c) agricultural scientists;

(d) environmental management professionals;

(e) spatial information professionals;

(f) lawyers;

(g) town planners land surveyers; and

(h) Agricultural Engineers

Fees

22. The Minister may by notice in the Gazette, determine fees in respect of the following:

(b) review of documents, processes and procedures by specialists on behalf of competent authorities; or

(c) consideration and processing of appeals.

Norms and standards for compliance with objects of the Act

23. In determining the listing of activities in terms of section 16 of the Act, the Minister must take the following into account:

(a) any alternatives to the listed activity and the significance of such alternatives’ potential consequences;

(b) other options, including not to perform the listed activity;

(c) mitigation measures to keep adverse consequences or impacts to a minimum;

(d) any gaps in knowledge regarding the potential consequences and impacts of the listed activity and alternatives to the listed activity; and

(e) any uncertainties encountered in compiling the required information on the listed activity.

National Agro-eco Information System

24. (1) The national agro-eco information system may include but is not limited to documents and records relating to authorisations, compliance, and contravention directives issued under the Act.

(2) The national agro-eco information system may include the data layers in the table below:

(3) The agro-eco information system may include the following datasets:

(a) Geo-referenced (Spatial) Data: All maps must be geo-referenced to the national standard spatial coordinate system, (WGS 84) ensuring interoperability with other data platforms.

(b) Administrative Boundaries: Legal or cadastral boundaries will be the primary demarcation wherever possible for precision and regulatory clarity (e.g., farm boundaries, district/municipal borders).

(c) Temporal Updates: Historical as well as current datasets will be maintained to enable tracking of changes and trends (e.g., agricultural land loss or new developments).

(d) Accessibility: Datasets should be published through interactive web viewers, downloadable spatial datasets (e.g., SHP, PDF), and be userfriendly for varied stakeholders.

(e) Integration with National Systems: Dataset shall be compatibility with the South African Spatial Data Infrastructure Act requirements and other official government systems.

(f) Supporting Metadata: Every map and spatial dataset must be accompanied by metadata compliant with ISO / SANS 19115 standards including data sources, date of generation, methods, accuracy, and applicable standards and include a Creative Commons license.

Short tile and commencement

28. These regulations shall be called the Regulations made in terms of the Preservation and Development of Agricultural Land Act, 2024 and come into operation on their date of publication in the Gazette.

LINK TO FULL NOTICE

Preservation and Development of Agricultural Land Act: Regulations: Comments invited

G 54417 GoN 7306

– Comment by 08 May 2026

27 March 2026

54417bn896.pdf

ACTION

Ensure that you submit your comments before 08 May 2026.

LAW AND TYPE OF NOTICE

MARKETING OF AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS ACT:

Registration of table eggs and egg products

G 54432 RG 11969 GoN 7326

31 March 2026

APPLIES TO: 

Who Must Register

• Any establishment selling locally produced or imported table eggs and/or egg products in South Africa.
• Registration is mandatory, unless a specific exemption applies.

SUMMARY

The statutory measure aims to:

• Compel registration of establishments selling locally produced and/or imported table eggs and egg products (pulp and powder), including hatchery rejected eggs sold to trade.
• Ensure accurate, reliable and continuous market information is available to all role‑players in the egg industry.
• Promote efficient marketing, competitiveness, and long‑term viability of the egg industry, both locally and internationally.
• Support informed decision‑making while not adversely affecting employment or labour practices.

Confidential information collected will be protected in accordance with the Act.

Products Covered

The measure applies to:

• Table eggs (non‑fertile eggs for domestic consumption),
• Egg products (egg pulp and egg powder),
• Hatchery rejected eggs sold into the trade, as regulated under Regulation R345 (egg grading, packing and marking regulations).

Who Must Register

• Any establishment selling locally produced or imported table eggs and/or egg products in South Africa.
• Registration is mandatory, unless a specific exemption applies.

A limited exemption may be granted to welfare organisations as defined under the VAT Act.

Administration and Enforcement

• The measure is administered and enforced by the South African Poultry Association (SAPA), acting as the levy administrator.
• SAPA may appoint a third party to manage the registration process on its behalf.

Registration Process

• Registration is free of charge and must be done immediately upon receipt of the registration form.
• Forms are submitted directly to SAPA (by post or fax).
• Non‑compliance is subject to enforcement under the Marketing of Agricultural Products Act.

Geographic Scope

• The measure applies throughout the Republic of South Africa.

Commencement and Duration

• Effective date: 1 April 2026
• Expiry date: 31 March 2030 (valid for four years)

FULL TEXT

DETAILS

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

NO. R. 7326 31 March 2026

MARKETING OF AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS ACT, 1996 (ACT No. 47 of 1996)

ESTABLISHMENT OF STATUTORY MEASURE: REGISTRATION BY SELLERS OF LOCALLY PRODUCED AND/OR IMPORTED TABLE EGGS, EGG PRODUCTS (PULP & POWDER) AS PRESCRIBED BY (R345 AS AMENDED) INCLUDING LOCAL HATCHERIES REJECTED EGGS THAT ARE SOLD TO THE TRADE

I, John Steenhuisen, Minister of Agriculture, acting under sections 10, 13, 14 and 19 of the Marketing of Agricultural Products Act, 1996 (Act No. 47 of 1996), hereby establish the statutory measure set out in the Schedule, hereto.

SCHEDULE

1. DEFINITIONS

In this Schedule any word or expression to which a meaning has been assigned in the Act shall have that meaning and, unless the context indicates otherwise –

“table eggs and egg products” means non-fertile eggs of the species Gallus gallus domesticus for domestic consumption;

“levy administrator” means the South African Poultry Association, the juristic person entrusted with the implementation, administration and enforcement of the statutory measure established under this regulation; and

“the Act” means the Marketing of Agricultural Products Act, 1996 (Act No. 47 of 1996);

“the Regulation” means Regulation R345 of the Agricultural Product Standards Act (Act 119 of 1990: ‘Regulations regarding the grading, packing and marking of eggs destined for sale in the Republic of South Africa.

2. PURPOSE AND AIMS OF THE STATUTORY MEASURES AND THE RELATION THEREOF TO OBJECTIVES OF THE ACT

The purpose and aims of this statutory measure are to compel establishments selling locally produced and/or imported table eggs and products (pulp & powder) as prescribed by regulation (R345 as amended) including local hatchery rejected eggs that are sold to the trade to register with the levy administrator. This is necessary to ensure all role-players have access to market information which is an essential ingredient in any agricultural development, access to accurate market information is very crucial in any decision making process. Continuous and accurate market information relating to locally produced and/or imported table eggs and egg products (pulp & powder) as prescribed by regulation (R345 as amended), including hatchery rejected eggs that are sold to the trade should be available to all market participants.

The establishment of the statutory measure should assist in promoting the efficiency of the marketing of table eggs both local and abroad. The viability of the egg industry should thus be enhanced through the introduction of statutory measures.

The measure is not detrimental to any objectives of the Act and, in particular, shall not be detrimental to the number of employment opportunities or fair labour practice in the egg industry.

Confidential information of any person subject to this statutory measure obtained by the levy administrator through the implementation, administration and enforcement of this statutory measure shall be dealt with in accordance with section 23(2) of the Act.

The measure shall be administered by the levy administrator who will appoint a third party to assist them with the registration of the identified role-players. The latter shall act in terms of the mandate and on behalf of the South African Poultry Association.

3. PRODUCT TO WHICH THE STATUTORY MEASURE SHALL APPLY

This statutory measure shall apply to –

Locally produced and imported table eggs as prescribed by (R345 as amended) and egg products (pulp & powder) including hatchery rejected eggs that are sold to the trade.

4. AREA IN WHICH STATUTORY MEASURE SHALL APPLY

This statutory measure shall apply within the geographical area of the Republic of South Africa.

5. REGISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT

(1) Any table eggs establishment selling locally produced and/or imported eggs as prescribed by regulation (R345 as amended) and egg products (pulp & powder) including hatchery rejected eggs that are sold to the trade.

(2) Registration shall be done immediately upon receipt of a registration form obtainable free of charge for this purpose from the levy administrator, and shall –

a) Be submitted, when forwarded by mail to:

The South African Poultry Association

PO Box 1202

Honeydew

2040

b) When sent by telefax, be addressed to: 011 795 9920

(3) Any establishment selling locally produced or imported table eggs as defined in the levy notice may apply to the levy administrator for exemption from the provisions of clause 5(1) and 5(2) of these regulations on the grounds that it is a welfare organization as defined in terms of section 1 of the Value Added Tax Act, 1998 (Act no 89 of 1998).

(4) The implementation, administration and enforcement of the statutory measure established in terms of these Regulations are entrusted to the levy administrator in terms of section 14 of the Act.

6. COMMENCEMENT AND PERIOD OF VALIDITY

This statutory measure shall come into operation on the 1st of April 2026 and will expire after four years on the 31st of March 2030.

LINK TO FULL NOTICE

Marketing of Agricultural Products Act: Registration of table eggs and egg products

G 54432 RG 11969 GoN 7326

31 March 2026

54432rg11969gon7326.pdf

ACTION

For the egg industry, this means:

• All relevant sellers must ensure timely registration with SAPA.
• Industry participants will be part of a formal data and market information system.
• The measure strengthens regulatory oversight without introducing a levy at this stage.

LAW AND TYPE OF NOTICE

MARKETING OF AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS ACT:

Establishment of statutory measure: Records and returns for table eggs and egg Products

G 54432 RG 11970 GoN 7327

31 March 2026

APPLIES TO: 

Any business or establishment that sells locally produced or imported table eggs, egg pulp, egg powder, or hatchery rejected eggs into the trade in South Africa must comply with this statutory measure.

SUMMARY

The statutory measure is intended to:

• Compel sellers of locally produced and/or imported table eggs and egg products (egg pulp and powder), including hatchery rejected eggs sold to trade, to keep records and submit returns.
• Ensure continuous, timely and accurate market information is available to all role‑players in the egg industry.
• Support efficient marketing, informed decision‑making, and the long‑term viability of the egg industry.
• Safeguard confidential business information, which must be handled in accordance with section 23(2) of the Act.

The measure is not intended to negatively impact employment or labour practices.

Products Covered

The measure applies to:

• Locally produced and imported table eggs (as regulated under Regulation R345, as amended),
• Egg products (egg pulp and egg powder),
• Locally produced hatchery rejected eggs that are sold into the trade.

Who Must Comply

• All establishments selling the above products in South Africa.
• Compliance is mandatory while the measure is in force.

Record‑Keeping and Returns Requirements

• Sellers must:
• • Keep records electronically or in ink in a record book,
  • Retain records at their registered premises for at least three years.
• Returns must:
• • Be submitted on forms provided free of charge by the levy administrator,
  • Be submitted by post or fax to the South African Poultry Association (SAPA).

Administration and Enforcement

• The statutory measure is administered and enforced by the South African Poultry Association (SAPA) as the levy administrator.
• SAPA may appoint a third party to assist with administration, acting under its mandate.

Geographic Scope

• The measure applies throughout the Republic of South Africa.

Commencement and Duration

• Effective date: 1 April 2026
• Expiry date: 31 March 2030 (valid for four years)

FULL TEXT

DETAILS

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

NO. R. 7327 31 March 2026

MARKETING OF AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS ACT, 1996 (ACT No. 47 of 1996)

ESTABLISHMENT OF STATUTORY MEASURE: RECORDS AND RETURNS BY SELLERS OF LOCALLY PRODUCED AND/OR IMPORTED TABLE EGGS AS PRESCRIBED BY REGULATION (R345 AS AMENDED) AND EGG PRODUCTS (PULP & POWDER) INCLUDING LOCAL HATCHERIES REJECTED EGGS THAT ARE SOLD TO THE TRADE

I, John Steenhuisen, Minister of Agriculture, acting under sections 10, 13, 14 and 18 of the Marketing of Agricultural Products Act, 1996 (Act No. 47 of 1996), hereby establish the statutory measure set out in the Schedule hereto.

SCHEDULE

1. DEFINITIONS

In this schedule any word or expression to which a meaning has been assigned in the Act shall have that meaning and, unless the context indicates otherwise –

“table eggs and egg products” means non – fertile eggs of the species Gallus gallus domesticus for domestic consumption;

“levy administrator” means the South African Poultry Association, the juristic person entrusted with the implementation, administration and enforcement of the statutory measure under this regulation; and

“the Act” means the Marketing of Agricultural Products Act, 1996 (Act No. 47 of 1996);

“the Regulation” means Regulation R345 of the Agricultural Product Standards Act (Act 119 of 1990: ‘Regulations regarding the grading, packing and marking of eggs destined for sale in the Republic of South Africa.

2. PURPOSE AND AIM OF STATUTORY MEASURE AND THE RELATION THEREOF TO OBJECTIVES OF THE ACT

The purpose and aim of this statutory measure are to compel the sellers of locally produced and/or imported table eggs as prescribed by (R345 as amended) and egg products (pulp & powder) including local hatcheries rejected eggs that are sold to the trade to render records and returns to the levy administrator. This is necessary to ensure that continuous, timeous and accurate information relating to the selling of table eggs as prescribed by (R345 as amended) and egg products (Imported and locally produced pulp & powder) including hatcheries rejected eggs sold to the trade is available to all role players.

Market information is deemed essential for all role players in order for them to make informed decisions.  By prescribing the keeping of records with the rendering of returns on an individual basis, market information for the whole of the industry can be processed and disseminated. The establishment of the statutory measure should assist in promoting the efficiency of the marketing of meat. The viability of the egg industry should thus be enhanced.

The measure is not detrimental to any objectives of the Act and, in particular, shall not be detrimental to the number of employment opportunities or fair labour practice in the egg industry.

Confidential information of any person subject to this statutory measure obtained by the levy administrator through the implementation, administration and enforcement of this statutory measure shall be dealt with in accordance with section 23(2) of the Act.

The measure shall be administered by the levy administrator who will appoint a third party to assist them with the administration of the statutory measure. The latter shall act in terms of the mandate and on behalf of the South African Poultry Association.

3. PRODUCTS TO WHICH THE STATUTORY MEASURE APPLIES

This statutory measure shall apply to –

a) Locally produced and/or imported table eggs as prescribed by (R345 as amended) and egg products (pulp & powder) including local hatchery rejected eggs that are sold to the trade.

4. AREA IN WHICH STATUTORY MEASURE SHALL APPLY

This statutory measure shall apply within the geographical area of the Republic of South Africa.

5. RECORDS TO BE KEPT, RETURNS TO BE RENDERED AND THE ENFORCEMENT THEREOF

a) (1) Establishments selling locally and/or imported table eggs as prescribed by (R345 as amended) and egg products (pulp & powder) including local hatcheries rejected eggs that are sold to the trade, shall keep such records and render the returns as may be required by the levy administrator.

(2) The records referred to in sub-clause (1) shall –

a) Be recorded on a computer or with ink in a book; and

b) Be kept at the registered premises of the person required to keep such records for a period of at least three years.

(3) The returns referred to in sub-clause (1) shall be rendered on a form obtainable free of charge for this purpose from the levy administrator, and shall –

a) Be submitted, when forwarded by post, to

The South African Poultry Association

P O Box 1202

Honeydew

2040

b) When sent by telefax, be addressed to – 011 795 9920.

(4) The implementation, administration and enforcement of the statutory measure established in these Regulations are entrusted to the levy administrator in terms of section 14 of the Act.

6. COMMENCEMENT AND PERIOD OF VALIDITY

This statutory measure shall come into operation on the 1st of April 2026 and will expire after four years on the 31st of March 2030.

LINK TO FULL NOTICE

Marketing of Agricultural Products Act: Establishment of statutory measure: Records and returns for table eggs and egg Products

G 54432 RG 11970 GoN 7327

31 March 2026

54433rg11970gon7327.pdf

ACTION

Affected businesses must:

• Implement formal record‑keeping systems,
• Ensure accurate and timely submission of returns,
• Be prepared for compliance monitoring and enforcement by SAPA.

AVIATION

LAW AND TYPE OF NOTICE

AIR SERVICES LICENSING ACT AND INTERNATIONAL AIR SERVICES ACT:

Air Service Licensing and International Air Services Councils: Shortlisted candidates: Correction: Comments invited

G 54417 GeN 3861

– Comment by 28 Apr 2026

27 March 2026

APPLIES TO: 

AVIATION INDUSTRY

DETAILS

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORT

GENERAL NOTICE 3861 OF 2026

AIR SERVICE LICENSING ACT, 1990 (ACT NO.115 OF 1990)

APPLICATION FOR THE GRANT OR AMENDMENT OF DOMESTIC AIR SERVICE LICENCE

Pursuant to the provisions of section 15 (1) (b) of Act No. 115 of 1990 and Regulation 8 of the Domestic Air Regulations,1991, it is hereby notified for general information that the application detail of which appear in the appendix, will be considered by the Air Service Licensing Council. Representation in accordance with section 15 (3) of the Act No.115 of 1990 in support of, or in position, an application, should reach the Air Service Licensing Council. Department of Transport, Private Bag X 193, Pretoria, 0001 or by email to: TshivhaZ@dot.gov.za within 21 days of date of the publication thereof.

Please click on the link provided below to see the details of the applicant.

LINK TO FULL NOTICE

Air Services Licensing Act and International Air Services Act: Air Service Licensing and International Air Services Councils: Shortlisted candidates: Correction: Comments invited

G 54417 GeN 3861

– Comment by 28 Apr 2026

27 March 2026

54417gen3861.pdf

ACTION

Interested parties need to submit their comments before 28 April 2026.

BUSINESS

LAW AND TYPE OF NOTICE

COMPANIES ACT:

Companies And Intellectual Property Commission (Cipc):

Closure notice regarding 2 April 2026 Easter weekend

G 54417 GoN 7315

27 March 2026

APPLIES TO: 

All Organizations

FULL TEXT

DETAILS

LINK TO FULL NOTICE

Companies Act: Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC): Closure notice regarding 2 April 2026 Easter weekend

G 54417 GoN 7315

27 March 2026

54417gon7315.pdf

ACTION

Take note of the closure dates and times..

CUSTOMS, EXCISE AND INTERNATIONAL TRADE

NOTICE

SUMMARY

LINK

Customs and Excise Act: Amendment of Part 3 of Schedule No. 6 (No. 6/3/66) (English / Afrikaans)

G 54412 RG 11965 GoN 7300

27 March 2026

This notice amends Part 3 of Schedule No. 6 to the Customs and Excise Act, 1964, which governs refunds and rebates of fuel levy and Road Accident Fund (RAF) levy for qualifying users.

The amendment updates the rates and/or scope of refund entitlements applicable to specific categories of fuel usage, as provided for under section 75 of the Customs and Excise Act.

54412reg11965gon7300.pdf

Customs and Excise Act: Amendment of Schedule No. 1 (No. 1/1965) (English / Afrikaans)

G 54412 RG 11965 GoN 7302

27 March 2026

The amendment adjusts tariff rate quota (TRQ) allocations for several agricultural and food products, including meat, dairy, cereals, and processed foods.

354412reg11965gon7302.pdf

Customs and Excise Act: Amendment of Schedule No. 1 (No. 1/1967) (English / Afrikaans)

G 54412 RG 11965 GoN 7304

27 March 2026

Key Points

• The amendment substitutes paragraph 3.1 of General Note N in Schedule 1.
• It revises Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) allocations for selected agricultural and food products.
• The changes apply retrospectively from 1 January 2026.

Products Affected

The revised TRQs apply to imports of, among others:

• Pork products (e.g. hams, shoulders and cuts with bone; pig fat),
• Dairy products (butter and various types of cheese),
• Cereals (wheat and barley),
• Processed foods, including bulk food preparations and ice cream.

54412reg11965gon7304.pdf

Customs and Excise Act: Amendment of Part 5A of Schedule No. 1 (No. 1/5A/182) (English / Afrikaans)

G 54412 RG 11965 GoN 7298

27 March 2026

Key Changes

• The amendment updates fuel levy rates by revising Note 8 in Section A of Part 5A.

• Fuel levy rates are now expressly made up of:
  • a general fuel levy, and
  • a carbon fuel levy, with rates specified per fuel type.

Effective Date

• The new rates apply from 1 April 2026 (not retrospective).

54412rg11965gon7298.pdf

LAW AND TYPE OF NOTICE

INTERNATIONAL TRADE ADMINISTRATION ACT:

Review of Tariff Structure for input material, components and final goods used in the renewable energy value chain: Comments invited

G 54420 GeN 3864

– Comment by 27 Apr 2026

27 March 2026

APPLIES TO: 

The notice directly affects importers of input materials, components, and final goods used in:

• Solar photovoltaic (PV) projects
• Wind energy projects
• Battery energy storage systems (BESS)

This includes importers of products such as:

• Solar panels and inverters
• Aluminium profiles, fasteners, and tower sections
• Screws, bolts, nuts, washers, cables and electrical components
• Wind turbine components and towers
• Lithium‑ion batteries and battery materials

SUMMARY

ITAC has provisionally recommended:

1. Increases in ordinary customs duties
2. • Duties on various renewable‑energy‑related products may be increased up to WTO bound rates, where policy space allows.

1. Higher duties on lithium‑ion batteries
2. • A proposed 15% ad valorem duty on fully assembled lithium‑ion batteries through the creation of a new 8‑digit tariff subheading.

1. Phased discontinuation of the solar PV rebate
2. • The existing solar photovoltaic rebate (Rebate Item 460.16) should continue temporarily.
   • It will only be discontinued once local PV assembly reaches 50% of domestic demand, subject to monitoring and consultation.

1. Possible local procurement and local content designation
2. • Products such as solar panels, inverters, trackers, fasteners and tower sections may be designated for local procurement under the Public Procurement Act, 2024, following a statutory process.

1. Restrictions under the staged consignment policy
2. • Certain products may be excluded from qualifying under staged consignment, due to existing domestic manufacturing capacity.

1. Industry advisory committee
2. • ITAC proposes establishing a renewable energy trade advisory committee to guide future tariff and trade measures.

Status of the Notice

• These findings are preliminary only.
• No final decisions have yet been made.
• The public is invited to submit comments within four (4) weeks of publication.

FULL TEXT

DETAILS

DEPARTMENT OF TRADE, INDUSTRY AND COMPETITION

NOTICE 3864 OF 2026

REVIEW OF THE TARIFF STRUCTURE FOR INPUT MATERIAL, COMPONENTS AND FINAL GOODS USED IN THE RENEWABLE ENERGY VALUE CHAIN INITIATED BY:

International Trade Administration Commission of South Africa (‘ITAC’)

Private Bag X 753

Pretoria

0001

On 17 April 2025, ITAC published the above-mentioned review in the Government Gazette No. 52523, under Notice 3142 of 2025 for a period of four (4) weeks for interested parties to comment on a number of focus areas.

During the publication period, in excess of 45 submissions were received from interested parties, ranging from requests for duty increases, consideration of certain products for possible relaxation of import controls, consideration of specific products for inclusion under local content requirements, a re-look into the list of products authorised for importation under the staged consignment policy, and other general comments on the potential impact of the review on the renewable energy industry value chain. Based on these submissions and the analysis of the evidence before the Commission, ITAC has made the following preliminary determinations:

1. A preliminary determination to recommend to the Minister of the DTIC that the ordinary customs duties on the tariff lines listed in Table 1 be increased to their respective WTO bound rates, where policy space exists and subject to further assessment during the investigation.

2. A preliminary determination to recommend to the Minister of the DTIC that the general rate of customs duty on fully assembled lithium-ion batteries be increased to the WTO bound rate of 15% ad valorem, by way of creation of a new 8-digit tariff subheading.

3. A preliminary determination to recommend to the Minister of the DTIC that a phased approach be taken for the possible discontinuation of Rebate Item 60.16/8541.43/01.06, whereby the rebate provision will continue to apply in the interim and will only be discontinued once domestic solar photovoltaic assembly capability reaches 50% of domestic demand, subject to ongoing monitoring and further consultation.

4. A preliminary determination to recommend to the Minister of the DTIC that solar panels, single-axis trackers, inverters, fasteners, and tower sections be considered for designation for local procurement and local content requirements, in terms of section 20(3)(b) of the Public Procurement Act 28 of 2024. With such a recommendation to be considered, following a statutory process led by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition and once the relevant regulations issued under the Act 28 of 2024 have been finalised.

5. A preliminary determination that there exists a need to exclude solar panels, single axis trackers, inverters, fasteners, and tower sections from qualification under the staged consignment policy as some level of domestic manufacturing capacity exists in these sub-sectors. This is to be done in collaboration with the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition and SARS.

6. A preliminary determination to recommend to the Minister of the DTIC that a Committee comprising industry role players be established, in terms of Section 23 of the International Trade Administration Act 71 of 2002, to advise the Commission on trade measures related to the renewable energy industry value chain. It should be noted that the Commission has not yet made its final determination on any of the above matters and nothing in this Notice should be construed as such. The final determination will only be made once the Commission has considered comments from members of the public on this “preliminary determination.”

PUBLICATION PERIOD:

Representations should be made within four (4) weeks of the date of this notice. Enquiries: ITAC Ref: 21/2024. Rethabile Molala/Nonqubeko Sikhakhana/Princess Matsepane. Tel:

012 394 5162/3835/3699 or email rmolala@itac.org.za/nsikhakhana@itac.org.za/ pmatsepane@itac.org.za.

LINK TO FULL NOTICE

International Trade Administration Act: Review of Tariff Structure for input material, components and final goods used in the renewable energy value chain: Comments invited

G 54420 GeN 3864

– Comment by 27 Apr 2026

27 March 2026

54420gen3864.pdf

ACTION

Ensure that you submit your comments before 27 April 2026.

ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS

LAW AND TYPE OF NOTICE

Independent Communications Authority of South Africa Act:

Submission of annual forecast of licence fees and universal service and access fund contributions

G 54441 GeN 3867

31 March 2026

54441gen3867.pdf

APPLIES TO: 

• Broadcasting licence holders
• ECS licence holders
• ECNS licence holders

This applies to:

• active and operating licensees,
• non‑operational licensees, and
• JSE‑listed licensees.

SUMMARY

Purpose of the Notice

The requirement ensures that ICASA can:

• accurately assess licence fee and USAF obligations,
• plan regulatory oversight and funding,
• ensure compliance with statutory funding mechanisms supporting universal access and media diversity.

Key Submission Requirements

Affected licensees must submit:

• an annual forecast of licence fees,
• an annual forecast of USAF contributions, based on defined annual turnover,
• a calculation of the Annual Licence Fee (ALF) and USAF amounts, and
• supporting financial documentation, such as:
• • trial balance,
  • management accounts, or
  • draft financial statements.

Special Requirements

• Broadcasting licensees must also specify the portion payable to the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA).
• JSE‑listed licensees must submit Agreed‑Upon Procedures (AUP) reports, verified by external auditors.
• Licensees not yet operational must submit confirmation from auditors or accounting officers that no revenue has been generated, together with a SARS clearance certificate (where applicable).

Deadline

• Submissions must be made on or before the end of April 2026.

FULL TEXT

DETAILS

INDEPENDENT COMMUNICATIONS AUTHORITY OF SOUTH AFRICA

NOTICE 3867 OF 2026

GENERAL NOTICE – SUBMISSION OF ANNUAL FORECAST OF LICENCE FEES AND UNIVERSAL SERVICE AND ACCESS FUND CONTRIBUTIONS FOR 2025/2026 BY BROADCASTING AND ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES (ECS) AND ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK SERVICES (ECNS) LICENSEES

1. The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (“Authority”) has a mandate in terms of the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa Act (Act No. 13 of 2000 (“ICASA Act”), as amended and the Electronic Communications Act No.: 36 of 2005 (“ECA”), as amended to regulate Broadcasting and Electronic Communications Services (“ECS”) and Electronic Communications Network Services (“ECNS”), in the public interest.

2. Section 4(3)(g) of the ICASA Act, provides that “the Authority may, by notice in writing, direct the holder of a licence in terms of the underlying statutes to produce or furnish to the Authority, at a time and place specified in the notice, any documents and information specified in such notice and relating to any matter in respect of which a duty or obligation is imposed on such a licensee by this Act or the underlying statutes”.

3. Schedule 3, regulation (3) the ICASA General Licence Fees Regulations, 2012 (“GLF Regulations”) as published in Government Gazette no. 36323 dated, 28 March 2013, as amended, requires Broadcasting and ECS/ECNS Licensees, to submit an annual forecast of licence fees for the year under review, using the format in Schedule 3(1), of the GLF Regulations, on or before the end of April every

year.

4. Therefore, the Authority hereby calls upon affected Broadcasting and ECS/ECNS Licensees, to submit an annual forecast of the licence fees and the Universal Service and Access Fund contributions, in line with the Annual Turnover definition as set out in the Universal Service and Access Fund Regulations, published in Government Gazette no. 34010 dated, 10 February 2011.

5. Further, only Broadcasting service Licensees pay a certain portion to the Media Development and Diversity Agency (“MDDA”). Therefore, in their respective submissions, every Broadcasting service Licensee must specify a portion of the amount each will pay to the MDDA.

6. In addition, every Broadcasting and ECS/ECNS licensee must also submit either a trial balance; detailed management accounts and or draft financial statements; and a calculation of the forecast of the Annual Licence Fees (ALF) and Universal Service and Access Fund (USAF) contribution.

6.1. NB. Any Licensee that may be listed on the Johannesburg Securities Exchange (JSE) and operating as per the JSE rules from the date of issue of this notice to 30 April 2026, should submit the Agreed Upon Procedure reports for ALF & USAF (i.e. calculations confirmed by their respective External Auditors).

7. For a Licensee that may not be in operation yet: –

7.1 The Authority would like to refer Individual Licensees to regulation 5 (4) and (5) of the Regulations on Amendment Standard Terms and Conditions for Individual Licences, 2015 as published in Government Gazette no.39875 dated, 30 March 2016. The clauses in the said Regulations provide as follows:

“(4) Where a Licensee has not commenced operations, it must provide the Authority with a letter from external auditors confirming that it has not generated any revenue from the licensed service.

(5) Where a Licensee is not legally required to have audited financial statements, it must submit a letter from an independent accounting officer and must submit a clearance certificate from the South African Revenue Services as proof that it did not generate any revenue from the licensed service.”

7.2. Except for a Class Broadcasting Licence holder, the Authority hereby refers Class ECS and ECNS Licensees to regulations 5 (4) and (5) of both schedules 2 and 3 of the Regulations on Amendment Standard Terms and Conditions Regulations for Class Licenses, published in Gazette no.44328 dated, 25 March 2021. The clauses in the said Regulations provide as follows:

LINK TO FULL NOTICE

Independent Communications Authority of South Africa Act: Submission of annual forecast of licence fees and universal service and access fund contributions

G 54441 GeN 3867

31 March 2026

54441gen3867.pdf

ACTION

Ensure that you lodge your submissions on or before the end of April 2026.

FINANCE

LAW AND TYPE OF NOTICE

FINANCIAL MARKETS ACT:

A2X Listing requirements – actively managed exchange traded funds and actively managed certificates: Amendments: Comments invited

G 54416 BN 895

– Comment by 10 Apr 2026

27 March 2026

APPLIES TO: 

Affects A2X, issuers and managers of actively managed ETFs and certificates, capital‑markets advisors, investors, and any stakeholders involved in listing or trading such products on the A2X Exchange.

FULL TEXT

DETAILS

BOARD NOTICE 895 OF 2026

NOTICE OF 2026

FINANCIAL SECTOR CONDUCT AUTHORITY

FINANCIAL MARKETS ACT, 2012

PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE A2X LISTING REQUIREMENTS- ACTIVELY MANAGED EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS AND ACTIVELY MANAGED CERTIFICATES.

The Financial Sector Conduct Authority (“FSCA”) hereby gives notice under section 11(6)(c)(ii) of the Financial Markets Act, 2012 (Act No. 19 of 2012) that the proposed amendments to the A2X Listing Requirements have been published on the official website of the FSCA (www.fsca.co.za) for public comment. All interested persons who have any objections to the proposed amendments are hereby called upon to lodge their objections with the FSCA on email: Queries.Marketinfrastructures@fsca.co.za within a period of fourteen (14) days from the date of publication of this notice.

Mr. Shreelin Naicker

Head of Department

Markets, Issuers and Intermediaries Department

Market Integrity and Decision Sciences Division

Financial Sector Conduct Authority

Financial Markets Act, 2012 (Act No. 19 of 2012)

LINK TO FULL NOTICE

Financial Markets Act: A2X Listing requirements – actively managed exchange traded funds and actively managed certificates: Amendments: Comments invited

G 54416 BN 895

– Comment by 10 Apr 2026

27 March 2026

54416bn895.pdf

ACTION

Ensure that you submit your comments before 10 April 2026.

LABOUR

LAW AND TYPE OF NOTICE

LABOUR RELATIONS ACT

Collective Agreements

LINK TO FULL NOTICE

Labour Relations Act: National Bargaining Council for the Private Security Sector: Extension to non-parties of the Council levies Collective Amending Agreement

G 54424 RG 11966 GoN 7318

30 March 2026

54424rg11966gon7318.pdf

Labour Relations Act: Motor Industry Bargaining Council – MIBCO: Extension to non-parties of amending Administrative Collective Agreement

G 54425 RG 11967 GoN 7320

30 March 2026

54425rg11967gon7320.pdf

Labour Relations Act: National Bargaining Council for the Electrical Industry of South Africa: Extension of Main Collective Amending Agreement to non-parties

G 54426 RG 11968 GoN 7322

30 March 2026

54426rg11968gon7322.pdf

Labour Relations Act: National Bargaining Council for the Road Freight and Logistics Industry: Extension to non-parties of the Main Collective Amending Agreement

G 54424 RG 11966 GoN 7319

30 March 2026

54424rg11966gon7319.pdf

Labour Relations Act: Bargaining Council for the Fast Food, Restaurant, Catering and Allied Trades: Extension to non-parties of the Main Collective Agreement

G 54426 RG 11968 GoN 7321

30 March 2026

54426rg11968gon7321.pdf

Labour Relations Act: National Bargaining Council for the Hairdressing, Cosmetology, Beauty and Skincare Industry: Extension to non-parties of the Amending Agency Shop Collective Agreement

G 54426 RG 11968 GoN 7323

30 March 2026

54426rg11968gon7323.pdf

MEDICAL

LAW AND TYPE OF NOTICE

MEDICAL SCHEMES ACT:

Registration of medical schemes

G 54417 GeN 3848

27 March 2026

SUMMARY

Sets out all the currently Registered Medical Schemes.

If you are interested in viewing this list, please click on the link provided below.

LINK TO FULL NOTICE

Medical Schemes Act: Registration of medical schemes (English / Afrikaans)

G 54417 GeN 3848

27 March 2026

54417gen3848.pdf

TRANSPORTATION

LAW AND TYPE OF NOTICE

ROAD CARRIER PERMITS

LINK TO FULL NOTICE

Road Carrier Permits

27-3-2026

CONSUMER PROTECTION ARTICLES

SOUTH AFRICA

Cartrack to pay R5m fine and R5.1m in refunds

Cartrack has also agreed to amend its terms and conditions.

Cartrack agreed to also settle 167 consumer complaints.

Customers complained that Cartrack terms and conditions violated the Consumer Protection Act.

The National Consumer Commission (NCC) said it had received complaints from 210 consumers over a period of time, complaining that Cartrack failed to provide remedies to consumers.

They further stated that the NCC investigated the complaints lodged by the consumers and found that the terms and conditions of the sale agreements were inconsistent with the CPA on some complaints.

Acting Commissioner Hardin Ratshisusu has welcomed the Tribunal’s consent order.

“This settlement concludes a lengthy investigation on complaints involving Cartrack. Consumers that were affected by the conduct will, through this settlement, receive redress,” Ratshisusu said.

“The NCC further welcomes Cartrack’s commitment to amend their terms and conditions to ensure compliance with the CPA and acknowledges Cartrack’s full co- operation.”

ENCA

GAMBLING ARTICLES

SOUTH AFRICA

Illegal offshore outfits dominate gambling

Illegal offshore gambling operators account for most of South Africa’s online betting activity, diverting billions of rand out of the country and exposing millions of users to risks.

The rapid growth of online betting, coupled with uneven enforcement and the ease of accessing international platforms, has enabled unlicensed operators to gain a significant foothold in the local market.

According to the South African Bookmakers Association (Saba), illegal platforms make up about 62% of the country’s online gambling market, with more than R50bn in gross gambling revenue flowing offshore each year. An estimated 16-million South Africans have used these platforms in the past year.

Saba commissioned the report through global research firm Yield Sec in November 2024.

Illegal gambling occurs when South African users place bets on foreign-based platforms that are not licensed locally. While many of these operators display licences from jurisdic­tions such as Curaçao, Malta, Gibraltar and the Philippines, these do not authorise them to operate in South Africa and offer no local consumer protection.

In terms of the National Gambling Act, it is unlawful to offer or participate in gambling services without a valid South African licence.

Offshore operators often use payment systems that rely on local banks and financial intermediaries to process transactions, effectively bypassing regulatory controls.

Saba warns that users of illegal platforms have no legal protection. Winnings are not guaranteed and may be forfeited to the state, while participants may also face prosecution.

The association notes that many users are unaware that engaging with these platforms is both unlawful and high risk, particularly given the absence of regulatory safeguards such as age verification and anti-money-laundering controls. Saba is working with regulators, law enforcement and the banking sector to curb illegal gambling activity and enforce existng legislation.

By Tara Roos

BusinessDay

PETROLEUM ARTICLES

SOUTH AFRICA

DA welcomes fuel levy cut, urges efficient spending not more debt

The Democratic Alliance (DA) on Tuesday welcomed the R3-a-litre fuel levy decrease, with Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana coming within close enough striking distance to the party’s proposed R3.17, it said.

On Tuesday, Godongwana and Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe announced that the fuel levy would temporarily be reduced from Wednesday, as part of measures to provide short-term relief to South Africans.

Petrol prices were estimated to have increased by between R5 and R6 a litre from midnight, and the R3-a-litre reduction in the fuel levy will provide some relief.

Last week DA spokesperson on Finance Dr Mark Burke said his party was willing to collaborate with Godongwana to urgently reduce the Road Accident Fund (RAF) and general fuel levies by 50% for the duration of the oil price shock, or as long as necessary.

“A 50% reduction would dampen increases by R3.17 and provide immediate and essential relief to South Africans who are staring down the barrel of a massive petrol shock in a week’s time,” he had said.

On Tuesday, Burke said South Africa could not afford to take on more national debt, urging National Treasury to refuse permission for “broken” State entities such as the Compensation Fund and Setas to keep their yearly surpluses.

“This discipline must be extended across entities. Treasury needs to look at the broader national balance sheet to give South Africans an urgent buffer,” he stated.

Further, he said the DA was curious as to how the fuel levy relief would be funded, adding that taxpayers cannot be expected to fund this relief through other forms of taxation.

“The only viable route to funding this relief is to make spending more efficient,” he explained.

Thabi Shomolekae

Polity

PROPERTY ARTICLES

SOUTH AFRICA

New Airbnb code has a sting in its tail

The Airbnb golden goose may soon lay fewer eggs. That’s because South Africa’s lucrative short-term rental market, which has netted millions for investors, now faces its first formal regulation as the government moves to oversee Airbnb and other home-sharing platforms.

The Department of Tourism has gazetted a Draft Code of Good Practice for Short-Term Rentals (STR) and invited public comment. If adopted, the Code will standardise regulations and require short-term rentals to follow rules similar to those imposed on hotels and guesthouses. Critics warn that this could significantly affect the market by reducing profits and discouraging investment in properties specifically acquired for short-term letting.

Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille says the code aims to guide conduct in tourism services, facilities, and products, and to promote sustainable tourism.

“Short-Term Rentals, including home-sharing platforms, have become a growing and established feature of South Africa’s tourism landscape,” de Lille said.

“By expanding accommodation options beyond traditional hotels, short-term rentals support geographic spread, enable more travellers to access diverse destinations, and create additional income opportunities for households and small property owners.”

She added that local governments could consider the Code when addressing short-term rental issues, based on local context.

Figures from the Short Term Rental Association of South Africa (Sastra) show that short-term rentals now make up around 50% of the country’s accommodation sector.

Sastra, which represents property owners, hosts, employees, and small businesses dependent on them, welcomed the objectives of the Draft Code of Good Practice: standardising service levels, guiding guest behaviour, and clarifying how digital platforms can support everyone for a positive experience.

“The code is noteworthy in aiming to support the beneficial impact short-term rental listings have on immediate communities, and mitigate negative impacts,” Sastra said.

But the association warned the Code comes with significant gaps. The sector is the first in hospitality to receive a COGP, and Sastra questioned why hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs are not held to similar standards.

“The risk is that this ‘interim and non-binding’ proposal is a temporary document, is not implementable, and creates more confusion than cohesion,” the association said.

Sastra also highlighted that there is no legal or official definition for short-term rentals in South Africa, creating uncertainty over who exactly falls under the scope of the code.

“The code offers no means or suggestion of execution or measures of success,” the group added.

It pointed out that short-term rental operators are being held to a higher standard than hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs, which are not required to adhere to this proposal. The association also noted that hosts are already required to comply with by-laws, property zoning, tax legislation, and labour laws.

A 2025 host survey cited by Sastra found that 80% of hosts are female, 52% are non-white, and 70% are not full-time employed, relying heavily on income made as hosts.

The survey indicated that around 65% of hosts own their own listings, while the rest manage properties for others.

Short-term rentals also employ an average of more than 2.5 people per listing, including housekeepers, maintenance tradespeople, and gardeners, said Sastra.

Brett Herron, the secretary-general of GOOD, the political party led by Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille, said the code is “a good start to addressing housing unaffordability.”

In Cape Town, where 70% of city-centre accommodation is now short-term rentals, rents and property values are rising far faster than salaries.

The regulations, he said, could give hosts and travellers new opportunities while protecting residents who are being priced out.

However, Brett Tungay, national chairperson of the Federated Hospitality Association of Southern Africa (Fedhasa), called the Code “totally pointless” and a knee-jerk reaction from the Department of Tourism.

“We’re not on an equal playing field. Hotels must pay commercial rates and taxes. We have to carry public liability insurance and comply with health and safety regulations. Short-term rentals pay residential rates, no taxes, no commercial compliance,” Tungay said.

He added that in some areas, Airbnbs have driven down rates by 30-40% and taken trade from self-catering resorts and hotels.

The social impact of Airbnbs could be seen around the world where city centres are getting hollowed out, and all the residential property has been converted to commercial, he said.

Tungay also criticised the draft code’s wording. “The definition of a short-term rental being a temporary use of a residence… is rubbish. Ninety-nine percent of properties that have been converted to an Airbnb will stay an Airbnb. Why are we trying to redefine terminology that has existed in the industry for decades?”

Rob Hutchinson, founder of Dear South Africa, which facilitates public participation in government policies, said the code is a precursor to a full overhaul of the Tourism Act.

Mandatory regulations could follow, giving municipalities the power to reclassify residential properties as commercial, tripling rates and taxes, and imposing 90-day annual caps on rentals.

He warned that the code also targets the privacy rights of guests by making it compulsory for platforms to share identity, contact and biometric data with hosts and government authorities.

“Hosts will incur major expenses to comply with safety regulations, smoke detectors, and other requirements. Property rates could increase by 300% if deemed commercial rather than residential,” Hutchinson said.

Dear SA, which claims over 61 000 registered subscribers, said public responses to the code have been “overwhelmingly critical.”

“While the Department frames this as a voluntary ‘Code of Good

Practice,’ our participants see it as a ‘thin edge of the wedge’ — a strategic precursor to mandatory laws that will fundamentally alter property rights in South Africa,” Hutchinson said.

Retirees commenting on Dear SA expressed concern that commercialgrade compliance requirements could make it unaffordable to rent out rooms or cottages.

One host said: “I rely on shortterm rental income to pay my mortgage and to survive the cost-of-living crisis. If this code becomes law, it could decimate the market for ordinary South Africans.”

Hutchinson said travellers also oppose the “hotelisation” of homesharing. One guest, Gayo, said: “If I wanted to stay in a hotel, I would.”

“Mom-and-pop” hosts are the primary targets of this regulatory overreach, said Hutchinson. “We are calling for a tiered, rational approach that protects rather than punishes small-scale entrepreneurship.”

He advocates for exemptions for homeowners renting a portion of their own homes, protection of guest identities, and a clear national definition of “short-term” to prevent inconsistent by-laws.

Jamie, a respondent on Dear SA, summed up the frustration: “Back off before this ‘code’ becomes the law that kills the side-hustle.”

Wendy Jasson Da Costa And Anita Nkonki

The Independent on Saturday