The South African gaming market has long been a subject of heated debate when it comes to regulation. The Democratic Alliance, an opposition political party, recently passed a law to eradicate the country’s ambiguous online gambling law. However, this is not the first attempt to adjust the laws governing the gambling industry in South Africa. A proposal to regulate the sector was first presented 14 years ago. Still, differing opinions about the industry’s future have kept the laws limbo.
Despite the ongoing confusion surrounding the gaming market’s laws, licensed operators can still organize online gambling in South Africa. So long as they have valid licenses issued by provincial governments. However, there is no denying that the country’s gambling laws need significant structural adjustments. Fortunately, stakeholders in the industry are well aware of the laws’ provisions and can adjust accordingly if any future modifications are made to the document.
The proposed key amendments to the legislation include provisions for managing the issuance of licenses, as well as the protocols and procedures involved in the process. This is viewed as the most crucial point in the amendment by many stakeholders in the industry. The amendment also outlines that documents that validate gambling activities will be issued by the provincial authority in whose jurisdiction the real money casino platforms will operate.
The proposed law regulating gambling advertisements is equally important. It seeks to create a safer gambling atmosphere for advertising, enabling operators in South Africa to explain what they offer correctly. This would help gamblers better understand the gambling market in general. Furthermore, the law would ensure operators adhere to the South African Financial Intelligence Center Act (FICA).
The amendment would also provide appropriate limitations to ensure that minors and vulnerable persons are protected from the harmful effects of gambling. As the online gaming industry expands, so does the number of people with gambling issues. To this end, the amendment aims to combat this problem by partnering with GamStop, a professional initiative focused on providing solutions to gambling problems. GamStop will closely monitor those battling gambling-related issues by limiting their deposits and gaming time. They will have access to dedicated help centres and many more resources to help them overcome such matters.
Implementing these proposed laws could drastically affect the South African gambling market. While it remains to be seen when these laws will finally come to fruition, stakeholders in the industry are optimistic that the necessary adjustments will come to effect soon. Ultimately, the goal is to create a safer, more regulated gambling environment in South Africa.
