South Africa Considers Legalizing Online Gambling

Marasha would rather regulate the industry than penalize the gamblers.

South Africa may be among the next nations to join the enlightened concerning online gambling. While internet play is currently illegal in South Africa, a bill which would legalize, license, and regulate online wagering is presently being reviewed by the Select Committee of National Provinces.

The bill is expected to be brought before the National Assembly for final approval soon. 

Under the National Gaming Act of 2004, online gambling is illegal, and subject to harsh penalties. Fines can be levied up to $1.26 million, and jail terms may be as long as ten years.

But the COO of the National Gambling Board, Themba Marasha, has met with the agencies in charge of upholding the restrictions on advertising, marketing, or participating in online gaming, and pushed the case to protect the consumer. Marasha would rather regulate the industry than penalize the gamblers.

Marasha noted that the new law will protect South Africans against unscrupulous online operators, and place proper control mechanisms in place.

He did state those currently in violation of existing law would probably be excluded from licensing consideration when the new law becomes active.

As yet another country realizes the wisdom of regulation as opposed to prohibition, one wonders when the United States will see the light.