South Africa’s Parliament is set to consider a bill to legalize online gambling.
Proposed by MP Geordin Hill-Lewis would look to add casino-style wagering via the internet to sports betting, which is already regulated.
Lawmakers in South Africa have been under pressure from commercial interests that oppose the unregulated, untaxed sites that proliferate nationwide.
Applicants for licences would apply through one of the country’s 10 provinces, while existing license-holders would be required to reapply for permission to operate online. Categories of license-holders would also be established.
Tax rates would be determined by the individual provinces, with certain national standards established to help eliminate provincial competition.
It’s expected that drafting regulations could take up to six months and the process of issuing licences a further 18 months.
