South Africa is about to see its first change to the National Gambling Act in a long time. As it stands, it is legal for local operators to offer online gambling. This assumes that the operator is licensed by a provincial authority. The problem is that there is no legislative framework regulating the industry. At least, there hasn’t been until now.
The National Gambling Amended Act of 2008 was drafted but never ratified. This means that online gambling in South Africa has not been adequately regulated for some time. Now opposition party, the Democratic Alliance, is making big movies. It seems as if the National Gambling Amended Act will finally be enforced.
A part spokesperson declared that an unregulated industry is the erosion of African online casino laws.
Big Changes Incoming
Currently, the legislature has not been published. In the meantime, the party spokesperson has revealed what the act will cover. The spokesperson explained that a central focus will be on regulating gambling-related ads. Mention was also made of establishing regulations to protect minors. The issuing of licenses is also to be more closely regulated but will continue to be handled on a provincial level.
Another area that will be addressed is compliance with the Financial Intelligence Centre Act (FICA). The spokesperson stressed that the regulations will ensure operator compliance with FICA.
The spokesperson concluded that stakeholders will be allowed to submit views on the bill. Views should be submitted to the Speaker of The National Assembly.
