OnTap Magazine

Dear Beer Lovers and Friends, As we say goodbye to summer and step deeper into 2025, I couldn’t be more excited about what’s ahead for South Africa’s beer industry. Last year was about stabilising, but this year, we’re all about growth, innovation and celebrating our love for beer. Whether you’re a casual beer drinker, a craft beer enthusiast, or someone working in the industry, we’re here to make sure you get the best experience possible. A Fairer Excise Tax for Your Beer You may have heard that the government is looking at changing the way excise tax is calculated for alcohol. While this is a big deal for breweries, it also affects you, the consumer. BASA is working hard to ensure that any new tax system is fair and doesn’t lead to unnecessary price hikes on your favourite beers. We’re pushing for more time to get this right and making sure your voice is heard in these discussions. Enjoying Beer Responsibly We all love a good time, but drinking responsibly is key to keeping our celebrations safe. Whether you're at a braai, a festival, or just unwinding after work, let’s make smart choices and look out for each other. Small actions — like organizing a designated driver or pacing your drinks — make a huge difference. More Jobs & Opportunities in Beer Beer is more than just a drink—it’s an industry that supports thousands of jobs. From brewing and quality control to marketing and sales, there are exciting career opportunities for young people, women, and black entrepreneurs. In 2025, we’re ramping up programmes to help small breweries and informal traders grow their businesses and build sustainable careers in beer. Elevating South Africa’s Beer Culture South Africans love beer, and it’s time we celebrate it beyond just a braai or a rugby game! There’s a beer for every taste — light, bold, bitter, sweet — and we want to help people explore new flavours and pairings. Expect more beer experiences in 2025 that showcase how beer belongs on every table, from casual get-togethers to fine dining. Brewing for a Better Future Breweries across the country are making strides in sustainability, from water-saving techniques to bottle recycling programmes. Some are even using leftover grains to bake bread for local communities! Supporting South African beer means supporting businesses that care about the environment and giving back. Here’s to a Great 2025! This year is all about making beer more accessible, enjoyable, and sustainable. We’re working hard to keep beer affordable, ensure responsible drinking, and create opportunities for more people in the industry. So, next time you raise a glass, know that you’re part of something bigger — a community that celebrates, innovates and grows together. CHEERS TO 2025! CHARLENE LOUW CEO of BASA CEO ADDRESS BEER ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA ontapmag.co.za | Autumn 2025 | 5