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Public Attitudes Towards Alcohol Policy: South Africa

A July 2025 Vital Strategies survey found that 96% of South Africans view alcohol consumption as a national problem, with 77% calling it a major one. Most link drinking to serious harms such as road injuries (91%), violence (90%), and suicide (81%), and two-thirds have personally experienced or witnessed negative effects from alcohol.

Public concern for youth exposure is strong: 87% oppose alcohol marketing near minors, 82% say ads glamorize drinking, and 78% support raising the legal drinking age.

There is broad support for stronger government action—85% favor higher alcohol taxes if funds aid social programs, and 80% believe government should address alcohol harms. 76% say alcohol companies should be held accountable, yet 83% report alcohol remains easy to buy, showing both high concern and high availability.