Regulating Africa’s Expanding Gambling Market

Summary

The segment examines South Africa's fast-growing gambling and online betting market, where gross gambling revenue rose nearly 26% and regulation has lagged. MP Makashule Gana calls for updated advertising, tax, and addiction-education rules plus a crackdown on unlicensed online operators. Attorney Garron Whitesman warns that overregulation can push activity into unregulated markets and argues for balanced regulation. Both agree the current framework is inadequate and reforms are likely.

• South Africa's gambling revenue grew nearly 26%, led by bookmakers and online platforms.
• Gambling and betting now contribute just over a third of personal services income, according to Stats SA data.
• Makashule Gana says advertising, tax, and education rules are outdated and unlicensed online operators are a major concern.
• Gana welcomes National Treasury's discussion document on online gambling tax and expects reforms.
• Garron Whitesman says overregulation can drive participants to unlicensed markets.
• Whitesman favors a balanced, well-regulated local market with clear rules and player/state protections.
• Both speakers agree the current gambling regulatory framework is inadequate and unsustainable.