EXPLAINER: How are adverts regulated in South Africa?

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GUEST - Gail Schimmel, CEO of the Advertising Regulatory Board (ARB)



In this conversation we unpack how advertising is regulated in South Africa and why truth in branding matters.



Gail Schimmel, CEO of the Advertising Regulatory Board (ARB), explains the role of the ARB in safeguarding consumer interests, setting industry standards, and ensuring advertisers strike a balance between creative expression and factual accuracy.



We dive into the recent Liqui Fruit case, where the ARB ordered the company to drop its long-standing slogan, “Nothing But Fruit”, after finding it misled consumers about the actual contents of its juices. Gail takes us through how the ARB evaluates consumer complaints, investigates claims, and makes rulings that impact both brands and the public.



From the complexities of regulating creativity to the next steps for Liqui Fruit, this conversation highlights how advertising watchdogs are shaping accountability and why every word in an advert matters.
15 Sep 2025 4PM English South Africa Business News · Investing

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