Pretoria: The Department of Trade Industry and Competition (the dtic) is actively seeking input from stakeholders and interested parties concerning the draft amended Regulations 4 of the Consumer Protection Act (CPA 68 of 2008). These regulations aim to establish methods to curtail unwanted direct marketing communications, a growing concern for South African consumers who face an increasing barrage of intrusive marketing efforts.

According to South African Government News Agency, Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau announced the publication of the amended regulations in the Government Gazette on 28 October 2024. The announcement invites stakeholders to submit their comments within a 45-day window, closing on 15 January 2025. The proposed changes introduce the Opt-Out Registry, which mandates that direct marketers must register and verify that consumers have not pre-emptively blocked direct marketing communications.

The call for public input is extended to direct marketers, legal experts, indu
stry associations, and citizens wishing to contribute their perspectives. Feedback may be submitted in writing to the dtic, addressed to Mr. Sibusiso Sasayi at Private Bag X 84, Pretoria, 0001, or via email at SSasayi@thedtic.gov.za. The draft amended regulations are available for review at the following link: