South Africa spends R150 billion a year on alcohol
South Africa’s annual alcohol bill has been placed at a staggering R150 billion, translating to an average of about R414 million spent every single day according to figures highlighted in a News24 broadcast on 30 December 2025.
The report shed light on the scale of alcohol consumption in the country, with experts explaining that spending spikes sharply during festive periods such as December and early January.
These peak seasons, they noted, place additional strain on household finances and expose broader social and economic challenges.
Specialists featured in the broadcast pointed out that alcohol expenditure remains a long-standing concern in South Africa due to its far-reaching consequences.
Beyond personal spending habits, high levels of alcohol consumption are closely linked to public health pressures, increased road accidents, domestic challenges and rising healthcare costs.
The report also emphasised that excessive spending on alcohol can worsen financial instability for many households, particularly during the festive season when expenses are already high.
Experts warned that money channelled into alcohol often comes at the expense of essentials such as savings, healthcare, education and long-term financial planning.