North West Consumer Affairs Act commences today — warrantless inspections and criminal penalties now live

The North West Provincial Gazette publishes the full text of the North West Consumer Affairs Act (Act 2 of 2026) together with a proclamation by the MEC for Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism fixing 18 August 2026 as the commencement date. The Act establishes the North West Consumer Affairs Office to receive, investigate and mediate consumer complaints of prohibited conduct, and the North West Consumer Affairs Tribunal (seated in Mmabatho) with powers to adjudicate disputes, declare prohibited conduct, grant interim relief, impose administrative fines and make enforceable orders. Inspectors are granted peace officer powers under the Criminal Procedure Act and may enter business premises at any time without prior notice to monitor compliance, condemn non-compliant goods, and impose fines. Criminal penalties of up to R100 000 or 12 months' imprisonment apply for general offences, rising to R200 000 for offences under section 35. The Act repeals the Consumer Affairs (Unfair Business Practices) Act, 1996 (Act 4 of 1996), and existing complaints lodged before commencement must be finalised under the new Act. All existing licensees in North West Province are directed to take notice and ensure transitional compliance immediately.