South Africa to Establish Gambling Council to Tackle Illegal Advertising.

The South African government is moving forward with plans to launch a National Gambling Council to curb illegal gambling advertisements and promote responsible gambling. Minister of Trade, Industry, and Competition, Ebrahim Patel, announced the initiative during a speech at the National Gambling Policy Council (NGPC) meeting in Durban.

Minister Patel emphasized the urgent need to address the rise in unlawful online gambling and related advertising, noting the harmful impact on society, especially among vulnerable groups such as young people.

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During his speech, he highlighted that the Council will work closely with regulators to enforce existing laws, monitor gambling activities, and educate the public on the risks associated with illegal gambling. He stressed that coordination between national and provincial regulators is essential to strengthen compliance efforts and safeguard consumers.

The Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition has already begun developing the National Gambling Act Amendment Bill, which will create a legal framework for the Council’s operations. The proposed Council will consist of representatives from national and provincial governments, gambling regulators, and law enforcement agencies.

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Authorities plan to use the Council as a platform to share information, align enforcement strategies, and promote responsible gambling practices nationwide. In addition to enforcement, the Council will also lead public awareness campaigns to warn about the dangers of illegal gambling.

The establishment of the Council marks a significant step by the government to create a safer and more regulated gambling environment in South Africa.

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