South Africa Unveils Gambling Operator Portal

South Africa’s National Gambling Board (NGB) has launched an online platform that enables the public to verify licensed gambling operators. Introduced on 8 April in Pretoria, the initiative forms part of efforts to curb illegal gambling and guide users toward regulated services.

The portal provides a central register of authorised operators, covering both online and land-based services. Developed with Provincial Licensing Authorities, it remains publicly accessible and regularly updated. Users can confirm whether a provider is legally permitted to operate within South Africa.

Central Register Improves Transparency

The NGB designed the platform as a verification tool for both consumers and institutions. Law enforcement agencies, financial bodies, and tax authorities will also use the database to strengthen monitoring. Only operators listed on the platform are allowed to offer gambling services legally.

Officials say the system improves transparency and helps users make informed choices. Acting CEO Lungile Dukwana stated: “This platform is a critical step in safeguarding South Africans from the dangers posed by illegal gambling. It gives the public a trusted resource to verify licensed gambling operators and ensures that those who choose to gamble can do so in a safe, regulated environment and strengthens oversight and accountability within the gambling industry.”

He added: “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”.

Illegal Activity And Market Pressures Persist

Illegal gambling continues to present challenges, particularly as offshore platforms target local users without authorisation. Consumers who engage with such services face risks that include financial losses, disputes without resolution, and exposure to fraudulent practices.

Industry estimates suggest that unlicensed operators account for a large share of online gambling activity. The South African Bookmakers Association places this figure at 62 per cent, indicating the scale of the issue confronting regulators.

At the same time, the country’s regulated gambling sector has seen substantial growth. The NGB reported turnover of 1.5 trillion South African Rand during the 2024/2025 financial year, representing a 31.3 per cent increase compared with the previous period.

Legal developments have also drawn attention to gaps in enforcement. A ruling by the Gauteng High Court reaffirmed that online casinos remain prohibited under national legislation, while also exposing inconsistencies in how rules are applied across provinces.

Policy Debates Shape Future Direction

Authorities are also considering a 20 per cent tax on gross gaming revenue, prompting debate among stakeholders. A representative from the Free Market Foundation warned: “The likely result is that more users will be driven to offshore online casinos, which operate outside the existing regulatory regime and do not pay gambling taxes.”

The NGB plans to work with financial institutions to restrict payments to unlicensed operators, aiming to reduce their reach. The new portal supports these efforts by offering a practical way for users to verify legal providers.

Source:

“National Gambling Board Launches Verified Gambling Operators Web Portal”, ngb.org.za, April 8, 2026