The company said in a statement on Tuesday that the stores will be launched "later this year". Until now, it has chosen to use homegrown retail brands as its route to market, including well-known names such as Makro and Builders.
Kath McLay , Walmart Internationals president and CEO, said the retail giant's South African stores will offer a "wide range of merchandise, including fresh groceries, household essentials, apparel and technology".
"Walmart also will offer a variety of locally sourced products. By partnering with South African suppliers and entrepreneurs, Walmart will bring its signature every day low prices and global standards to the market, while celebrating the country's rich culture," she added.