Minister of trade and industry Ebrahim Patel said the sale of
essential goods could continue during the 21-day lockdown in place to stem the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic – but only under three conditions.
He said retailers had to put in place controls to ensure that consumers
keep a distance of at least a one metre radius.
Retailers would also have to limit the number of people who enter the store
based on its size.
All shopping centres and supermarkets selling essential goods also
had to follow all directions in terms of hygienic conditions.
Mr Patel said retailers that sold a range of products as well as food
would be limited to selling only essential goods. “This is not a time for general
shopping,” he said.
The regulations were in place to reduce numbers and time spent in a store
said Mr Patel. South Africans must complete their basic shopping and
return home. He encourages people to shop at local shops and said he would be talking to
supermarkets about opening early and closing early and making similar arrangements
with spaza shops.
Individuals must stay at home unless they are buying groceries or petrol,
getting social grants, banking or seeking medical care, which are allowed
during lockdown.