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Flowers are blooming, the air is warmer, and South Africans are reconnecting with each other. A season that reminds us of the traditions, diversity, and creativity that make our country unique. And what better way to celebrate than by raising a glass to one of South Africa’s most cherished cultural companions - beer.

Beer Brings People Together
From old taverns to modern stadiums, beer has always played a role in connecting South Africans. It sparks conversation, unites friends over sport, and keeps stories of heritage alive. For centuries, traditional brews have been part of community life, while commercial brewing has given us a century-long legacy of consistency, quality, and innovation.

Today, South Africans can choose from a spectrum of styles - smooth premium lagers, rich sorghum beers, or inventive craft creations. Whatever your taste, there’s #NothingLikeABeer.

Tradition Meets Innovation

Our beer culture is rooted in history but never stands still. Traditional brews like those produced by United National Breweries - Chibuku, Leopard, Tlokwe, and Ijuba - carry the flavours of regional heritage, now packaged and marketed in ways that resonate with younger consumers.

At the same time, innovation is redefining the future. Beer is naturally a low-alcohol choice, but brewers have invested heavily in crafting lower- and no-alcohol options that taste just as good as traditional brews. In fact, studies show that offering more low- and no-alcohol options can help reduce harmful consumption - and South Africans are embracing the shift. Sales of these varieties are climbing, especially among women, younger drinkers, and consumers seeking moderation.

Whether with or without alcohol, beer continues to enliven social spaces and bring people together. For celebrations and connections, there’s #NothingLikeABeer.

A Natural Choice

Beer is made from simple, natural ingredients - 96% water, plus grains, hops, and yeast. Compared to other alcoholic beverages, it has a lower alcohol by volume, making it easier to enjoy responsibly. And for wellness-conscious consumers, lower-carb beers are now widely available.

Brewing is a craft that demands care and precision. One power cut or temperature fluctuation can ruin a batch - proof of the high standards our local brewers uphold every day.

Creating Jobs and Protecting Culture

Beer is more than refreshment - it’s a driver of economic opportunity. According to the WBA Global Beer Report, the local beer industry supports over 210,000 formal jobs and countless more through suppliers, taverns, and beer tourism. In many townships, taverns are not just businesses but vital community hubs and entry points for entrepreneurs.

But this ecosystem is under threat. Unbalanced excise tax hikes drive consumers towards illicit alcohol, which puts jobs, small businesses, and even public safety at risk. Evidence shows that policies nudging consumers toward lower-ABV choices can improve public health outcomes. By contrast, excessive tax increases fuel harmful markets instead of reducing them.

A fair, predictable tax policy protects livelihoods and sustains South Africa’s beer culture - ensuring farmers, brewers, tavern owners, and consumers all benefit.

Raising a Glass - Responsibly

Beer has always been about community, never excess. By choosing moderation - whether through lower-ABV, no-alcohol options, or simply drinking responsibly - South Africans help sustain a healthy beer culture for generations to come.

As we head into summer and festive celebrations, let’s celebrate responsibly, support local brewers, and take pride in a beer culture that is as diverse and dynamic as our nation. Because when it comes to balance, moderation, and community - there’s truly #NothingLikeABeer.

By Charlene Louw, CEO of the Beer Association of South Africa