The initiative aims to improve transparency and empower consumers to make informed decisions when engaging in gambling activities.
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The National Gambling Board (NGB) has unveiled a new online platform designed to help South Africans identify legally licensed gambling operators, marking a significant step in the fight against illegal betting and consumer exploitation.
Launched on Wednesday in Pretoria, the portal provides a centralised, regularly updated database of all authorised gambling operators across the country. Developed in collaboration with Provincial Licensing Authorities (PLAs), the initiative aims to improve transparency and empower consumers to make informed decisions when engaging in gambling activities.
The NGB said the platform is part of broader efforts to curb the growth of illegal and offshore gambling operations, which continue to expose users to financial loss, fraud, and limited recourse in disputes.
By enabling the public to verify whether an operator is licensed—whether online or land-based—the regulator hopes to strengthen trust in South Africa’s regulated gambling sector.
This comes amid the growing prevalence of illegal offshore gambling sites that are eclipsing the local market, putting millions of consumers at risk of financial loss, fraud, and potential legal repercussions.
A recent data-driven report commissioned by the South African Bookmakers Association and carried out by YieldSec, a leading global market research firm in online gaming, reveals that approximately 62% of all online gambling activity in South Africa occurs on illegal platforms.
The government is now considering a 20% national tax on gross gambling revenue for online betting and interactive gambling.
NGB acting CEO Lungile Dukwana described the platform as a “critical step” in protecting consumers and reinforcing accountability within the industry.
He noted that the verified list will also be shared with law enforcement agencies, tax authorities, and financial institutions to support coordinated enforcement efforts against illegal operators.
“We are not encouraging gambling beyond recreation, but rather promoting informed and responsible participation for those who choose to engage in it. Our priority is to protect vulnerable individuals and ensure compliance within the gambling industry,” he said.
The regulator reiterated that only operators listed on the portal are legally authorised to offer gambling services in South Africa. It also urged members of the public to verify operators before placing bets and to report any suspicious or illegal gambling activity either directly to the NGB or through relevant provincial authorities.
Importantly, the NGB stressed that the publication of the list is not intended to promote gambling, but rather to protect the public and the broader economy from the risks associated with unregulated betting platforms.
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