Published on 30th January 2015 by Becky Mosley

The South African Parliament is again going to take a look at the legality of online gambling this year. A new Remote Gambling Bill is set to be put before the South African Parliament in February, with many South African gamers eager to learn the outcome of this latest move to legitimise online gambling in the country.

Heavy Gambling Restrictions

Online gambling in South Africa is currently quite heavily restricted. Placing stakes on bingo, casino and poker games is currently illegal, and simply playing games at an offshore casino site (one based outside of South Africa), can bring a 10,000,000 Rand fine, as well as up to 10 years in prison. To a certain degree, however, sports betting is permitted.Several attempts have been made to get online gambling legalised in South Africa, although campaigners have faced tough opposition from anti-money laundering agencies, and of course, land-based casinos, with the latter keen to keep the clientele to themselves.It is the Shadow Minister of trade and industry that is trying to get the Remote Gambling Bill looked at again, and this time it might work. Many are still sceptical of its success, since the South African Government cares little for legalising online gambling, but a debate on the matter has been forced.

Government Could Cash In

The bill will propose to split licensing responsibility between the provinces of South Africa, and the National Gambling Board. In a move that is similar to the United States’ tussles with online gambling; it would allow each province to decide whether or not it wishes to offer online gambling. Then National Gambling Board would then oversee gambling licenses. The Shadow Minister is backing on the government being keen to claim millions of Rands worth of extra revenue if the act is passed, although it still faces strong opposition.