Proposed National Tax Signals Movement Towards Legal iGaming

South Africa’s National Treasury has extended the consultation period for its proposed national remote gambling tax, with the deadline for public submissions now moved to 27 February 2026. The proposed tax, set at 20% on gross gambling revenue (GGR) from online activity, would sit alongside existing provincial tax rates, potentially bringing the total tax burden to between 26% and 29%.

While some industry stakeholders may focus on the financial implications, the broader impact of this move could be far more significant. For the first time, interactive gambling is explicitly included in national legislation, suggesting that the government may finally be preparing to recognise and regulate online casino gaming. This development could help resolve the long-standing legal grey area surrounding iGaming in South Africa, offering a clearer and more secure environment for both operators and players.

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Centralised Regulation Could Help Address Illegal Gambling

The rise in online gambling, driven by easier access and widespread advertising, has raised concerns around problem gambling and unlicensed platforms operating in the South African market. According to the National Gambling Board, betting generated R1.126 trillion in turnover during the 2024/25 financial year, with gross gambling revenue from this sector increasing by nearly 400% year-on-year.

Currently, only online sports betting and horse racing are legally permitted under the National Gambling Act. This has left many casino-style online games operating in a regulatory vacuum, often accessed through offshore sites.

If the tax proposal is implemented, it could act as a legal trigger for broader reform. By formally bringing online casinos under national oversight, the government would be in a stronger position to enforce compliance, protect players, and shut down rogue operators.

Encouraging Signs for a Safer, Legal Gambling Landscape

Beyond its fiscal aims, the proposed tax has been described by the Treasury as a public policy tool designed to curb gambling-related harm—similar to existing levies on alcohol and tobacco. However, it also represents an opportunity to modernise South Africa’s outdated gambling laws and establish a coherent legal framework for online casino play.

For South Africans looking to engage in legal, regulated online gambling, this could lead to a more transparent and secure environment. Sites that are already licensed and focused on compliance, such as those listed on our platform, would be well-positioned to meet the expected regulatory standards. Ultimately, extending the consultation period gives stakeholders more time to shape what could be a pivotal reform. If handled carefully, this process could open the door to a well-regulated, legal online casino industry that better serves South African players.