The Presidency said Zuma welcomed the interaction with this important sector of South Africa’s society, remarking that their products - from newspapers, magazines, to radio stations and television channels, provided a platform and mirror to project the country’s life and society.

A number of issues were discussed including government’s proposal to withdraw alcohol advertising.

“The President said government was concerned about the negative impact of alcohol abuse on society, especially on the poor, and needed to act to mitigate the problem. The industry leaders felt the advertising withdrawal might seriously impact on jobs and business. It was agreed that this matter needs to be debated further between the two parties”.

There had also been some concerns regarding government’s centralised advertising but the Presidency said Zuma had clarified that such a decision was a cost saving measure on the part of government and not a punitive one based on the content of print media.  It was explained that the bulk buying decision was made as early as 1998.

The media owners further appraised the President of their own challenges in the industry including regulatory constraints which they wanted to discuss further. It was agreed that another session would be held soon, focusing on the media as a business, hosted by the Department of Communications.