South Africa: new online gambling bill proposed

The Remote Gambling Bill B11-2024 (the "bill") has been proposed in South Africa. These include a new licensing system, proposed regulations for operators and protection measures to help prevent gambling related harm.

South Africa does not currently regulate online gambling. The National Gambling Amendment Act, originally proposed in 2008 and regulating online gambling, still remains unsigned.

Opposition party, the Democratic Alliance, which proposed the bill stated that such bill will fill a “legal gap” within the gambling industry. The party adds the bill took two years to construct and finds the “perfect balance” between protection, regulation and administration.

The bill foresees three types of licences, namely, a remote gambling operator licence, a manufacturer, supplier of maintenance provider licence and an employment licence.

All licence applications would need to be submitted to provincial licensing authorities. However, the National Gambling Board will have the final say on issuing licences. Provincial authorities will also support the board by monitoring activity and taking action over any unlawful operations.

No information was set out as to how much licences will cost. The bill also did not make reference to tax rates for online gambling.

Despite the proposed bill, things may change as South Africa is approaching upcoming national and provincial elections on 29 May. 

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https://www.compliancecommittee.com/

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