According to reports by Wines of South Africa, more than 21,000 people have lost their jobs and more jobs might still be lost because of the global pandemic.
On Tuesday, the industry indicated that the sector was operating at a R7.5 billion loss due to the impact of the Covid-19 which further phased in the nationwide lockdown.
The Industry was handicapped during this period.
It could not sell wine locally for 14 weeks and could not export its product for about five weeks.
Wines of South Africa communication manager, Maryna Calow explained that over the past 10 to 15 years, the industry experienced significant recession.
She said it had lost some primary producers and the pandemic also made matter worst.
“Ten years ago we had about 3,500 primary producers; we now only have about 2,700 therefore the impact of the lockdown is likely to see further shrinkage of this industry.”
According to Calow, many wine sellers rely on wine tourism and with the situation that still leaves alcohol banned, these sellers are still struggling.
She indicated that wine cannot be sold on weekends and during the work week, there are no international tourists that can patronise them.
“A big difference will come in if we are allowed to sell wine on Saturdays and Sundays as well.”
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