South Africa’s Democratic Alliance Proposes Remote Gambling Bill to Regulate Online Gaming
Published: April 22, 2024 | Author: Ron Clarke
In a significant legislative move, South Africa’s official opposition, the Democratic Alliance (DA), has introduced a bill aimed at regulating the remote gambling sector. The Remote Gambling Bill (B11-2024) seeks to establish a comprehensive framework for licensing and regulating online gambling activities, a sector that has remained largely unregulated despite previous legislative efforts.
The bill outlines a structured licensing system that includes three main types: a remote gambling operator license, a manufacturer or supplier license, and an employment license. These licenses would be overseen by provincial licensing authorities, with final approvals issued by the National Gambling Board. This structure aims to streamline the regulatory process and ensure a consistent approach to managing online gambling across the country.
Key aspects of the Remote Gambling Bill include strict age restrictions, with gambling services only available to individuals who are 18 and older. Additionally, the bill prohibits the extension of credit to gamblers and mandates that operators implement responsible gambling practices. This includes options for self-exclusion and tools to help manage gambling habits, such as deposit limits.
Advertising for online gambling will also face stringent rules under the new bill. Advertisements must not be misleading and must include messages promoting responsible gambling.
For years, the absence of formal regulation in South Africa’s online gambling scene has been a point of contention. The National Gambling Amendment Act was introduced in 2008 and signed by the president, but it never came into force. The DA argues that this new bill will fill the existing legal void and provide the necessary legal framework to govern online gambling effectively.
Despite the potential benefits touted by the DA, the bill’s passage is not guaranteed. The ruling African National Congress (ANC) has dominated South African politics since the end of apartheid in 1994. However, upcoming national and provincial elections on May 29 could shift the political landscape. Polls suggest that the ANC might lose its majority, which could increase the likelihood of the Remote Gambling Bill passing.
