About Us

BASA brings together all the main beer manufacturers in the country namely, CBASA (Craft Brewers Association South Africa), Heineken South Africa,South African Breweries (SAB) and United National Breweries (UNB). It was established in order to be a unified voice on issues affecting the beer industry and enhance beer culture in South Africa.

BASA is mandated to support beer’s position as the alcoholic beverage of choice for South Africans and to do so with a focus on responsible drinking.

BASA also aims to differentiate beer as a product of moderation. Beer is a comparatively low-alcohol option for consumers.

Brewing also has a rich and varied history in South Africa, uniting consumers across cultures.

The manufacturers of beer in South Africa are committed to championing regulation that will stimulate and transform the alcohol industry.

BASA also focuses on advocating for the interests of beer manufacturers, promoting ethical and legal trade practices and facilitating the sustainable growth of the sector.

Economic and Social Contribution of the SA Beer Industry:

It is estimated that beer supported a contribution of R71 billion to South Africa’s GDP. That equals R1 in every R79 of GDP.
The beer industry in South Africa supports an estimated 249 000 jobs.
Beer manufacturers also support the South African economy through tax payments to the government equalling R43 billion annually.
Beer has an important place in South African culture. It is a drink of heritage, tradition and togetherness.
Beer manufacturers provide a number of social and economic upliftment programmes across the country with an emphasis on supporting entrepreneurs and small business development.

Source: Oxford Economics – The Economic Impact of the Beer Sector in South Africa. 2019.

BASA Strategic Imperatives

BASA will be focusing on the followinG strategic imperatives in order to achieve its main objectiVES

Tell the story of the beer industry

To enhance the reputation of the industry and further beer culture in the country, we will share the many positive stories coming out of the sector. This includes the fact that it is the most popular alcoholic beverage in terms of volume and value, it is a key job creator and economic contributor, and it is a diverse, increasingly transformed sector, with the growing craft beer community helping to differentiate the industry and increasing consumer choice.

Support improved regulation within the beer sector

Improved regulation is critical for the sustainable growth of the sector. BASA will work with the government to ensure greater compliance within the industry and to develop a regulatory framework that facilitates the entry of new participants and encourages diversification of ownership. This will include a mutually beneficial excise regime where the needs of government are met while reducing the cost burden on the industry and addressing unemployment at the same time.