Did you know selling products with the South African flag requires government permission?
One local company has now received official approval.
The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) granted SA Greetings (Pty) Ltd permission to use the South African national flag on commercial merchandise.
The approval appeared in Government Gazette No. 53397 on 22 September 2025, under the Merchandise Marks Act No. 17 of 1941.
FLAG USE GRANTED UNDER STICT CONDITIONS
The Merchandise Marks Act strictly protects national symbols, making commercial use of the flag uncommon. Businesses may not display it on products without written consent from the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition.
The notice, titled Final Notice: Permission to use the South African National Flag by SA Greetings (Pty) Ltd, grants the company limited rights to feature the flag only on products shown in Annexure 1, which depicts various socks.
The company must:
- Reproduce the flag accurately with the correct colours and proportions
- Not imply government endorsement
- Maintain quality and dignity
- Use the flag only within the approved time period
- Accept revocation if rules are broken
WHY THE SOUTH AFRICAN FLAG IS LEGALLY PROTECTED
The Merchandise Marks Act strictly regulates national symbols, including the flag, Coat of Arms, and official emblems.
The law prevents businesses from distorting or commercially exploiting national symbols. In other words, selling T-shirts, mugs, or souvenirs with the flag is illegal without DTIC permission.
However, many South Africans do not know this rule, which has existed since 1941. It protects the country’s symbols and prevents misuse for profit or political messaging.
WHO IS SA GREETINGS
SA Greetings Pty Ltd is a long-standing South African company that manufactures and distributes greeting cards, gift wrap, and celebration products. Its items are sold nationwide in major retailers.
With this approval, shoppers might soon see flag-themed socks designed by the company in time for national holidays and sporting events..
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR OTHER BUSINESSES
This approval warns businesses that patriotic branding does not automatically comply with the law. Companies must seek permission from the DTIC before selling products with the national flag. Violating this rule can trigger legal action, product recalls, or reputational damage.
Although the South African flag belongs to the people, the government strictly protects its commercial use.
