The AMA was formed in 1963 and represents companies involved in the supply, manufacture and/or marketing of aerosols. AMA members currently account for the majority of aerosols manufactured in South Africa.

The Association has a number of rules:

• It negotiates on behalf of the industry on all matters concerning SA legislation and other relevant issues.
• It provides information and advice to aerosol manufacturers, consumers, official bodies, teachers and the press.
• It works closely with the government, and non-government organisations such as the Advertising Standards Authority and the Wildlife Society on issues such as safety, environmental protection and codes of practice.

The AMA has close links with international aerosol organisations including the Australian Aerosol Association , the British Aerosol manufacturers' Association, the Federation of European Aerosol Manufacturers and similar organisations in the USA.