The National Gambling Board (NGB) of South Africa has launched a new online verification portal designed to help the public identify legally licensed gambling operators. This marks a significant step in the country’s efforts to combat illegal betting activity.
Developed in collaboration with provincial licensing authorities (PLAs), the portal provides a centralised, searchable database of all authorised land-based and online gambling operators in South Africa.
Centralised Register to Strengthen Consumer Protection
Accessible via the NGB’s official website, the platform guides consumers toward regulated and compliant operators and reduces exposure to unlicensed gambling services. The NGB will continuously update the database and share it with the public, law enforcement agencies, tax authorities, and financial institutions.
The NGB confirmed that only operators listed in the portal hold legal authorisation to offer gambling services in the country, reinforcing its role as a national verification standard.
A Key Tool Against Illegal Gambling Activity
Acting CEO Lungile Dukwana described the initiative as a critical safeguard for consumers. He highlighted its role in improving transparency and accountability across the sector.
He noted that the platform provides a trusted reference point for verifying operators and supports safer participation in regulated gambling environments. Furthermore, according to Dukwana, it also strengthens broader oversight mechanisms within the industry.
Growing Pressure From Offshore and Unlicensed Operators
South Africa, Africa’s largest regulated gambling market, continues to face growing pressure from illegal and offshore operators, particularly in the online segment. According to the NGB, approximately 1.5 trillion rand ($89 billion) was wagered during the 2024/2025 financial year. This represents a 31.3% year-on-year increase.
However, regulators estimate that a significant share of online activity still flows through unlicensed platforms. The South African Bookmakers Association (SABA) suggests that as much as 62% of online gambling originates from illegal operators.
Regulatory Gaps and Policy Debate Continue
Legal and policy tensions reinforce the regulatory challenge, including a recent Gauteng High Court ruling that confirms online casinos remain illegal under current national law. At the same time, inconsistencies between provincial and national enforcement continue to complicate oversight of the digital gambling market.
Discussions around a proposed 20% gross gaming revenue tax have also sparked debate. Critics warn that higher taxation could push more players toward offshore operators outside the regulated system.
Collaboration With Financial Institutions Planned
To strengthen enforcement, the NGB plans to work with financial institutions and payment providers to use the verification database as a tool for identifying and restricting transactions linked to unlicensed operators.
The board also stressed that the initiative is not intended to promote gambling, but rather to ensure responsible participation, consumer protection, and regulatory compliance for those who choose to engage in legal betting activity.
