Temporary Measure Regarding Bottle Size Regulation for Sake in South Africa

Jun 03, 2026


The Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) Johannesburg and The Embassy of Japan in the Republic of South Africa wish to announce that the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS) has introduced temporary measures concerning container capacity regulations for sake under the South African National Standard (SANS 289:2022).

Following amendments to the regulations under the Liquor Products Act in March 2025, procedures for the import of sake into South Africa were simplified. In addition, the NRCS has implemented the following measures regarding the retail sale of sake:
  •  Packaged sake: No container capacity restrictions apply.
  •  Sake sold for on-premises consumption at retail establishments, including restaurants and bars: May be served in 25mL units or multiples thereof.

With the implementation of these measures, container capacity restrictions on sake packaged and retailed within South Africa have effectively been removed. This concession and reduction of import barriers is significant, as sake did not neatly conform to the standard bottle size measurements specificized and regulated by SANS 289:2022. This created a challenge in distribution, as traditional sake bottle sizes typically retail in 180mL increments, such as 720mL and 1,8L.
These measures are being applied retroactively from the date of approval, 9 February 2026.

Sake represents more than just a beverage. It embodies Japanese history and culture. JETRO hopes that these measures will enable more people in South Africa to enjoy sake alongside both Japanese and South African cuisine, and further promote cultural, culinary, and business exchange between Japan and South Africa.

Concession details provided by NRCS can be viewed here. 
NRCS Concession  ＜PDF＞ (1018KB) 
Please contact JETRO for any questions or further clarifications.