South Africa gazettes draft space law to replace 1993 Act

Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau has gazetted the draft South African Space Industry Regulatory Bill, 2026, for 60 days of public comment from 30 October 2026. It would replace the Space Affairs Act, 1993.

The department says the bill is meant to keep regulation in step with new technology, commercial space activity and South Africa's treaty obligations. It also covers authorisation of space activities, liability and insurance.

It proposes a South African Space Regulatory Authority (SASRA) and a National Office for Outer Space Activities (NOOSA). The department describes these as strengthening the existing South African Council for Space Affairs and its secretariat, rather than creating unrelated bodies.

Industry, researchers, professional bodies and the public may send written comments to sasirabill@thedtic.gov.za.

Why it matters: The bill could change who needs authorisation for satellite manufacturing, operation and space applications in South Africa. Earth observation and downstream geospatial firms should check how the final text defines the activities it regulates.