ANC Defends Gambling Sector Against Opposition Ban Proposals
The African National Congress rejected opposition party accusations of inaction on online gambling regulation during parliamentary debate on November 1, 2025. Opposition MPs criticized the seven-year hiatus of the national gambling policy council and absence of a formal gambling board. ANC representatives defended the party’s regulatory approach and opposed sector bans.
Government Cites Employment and Revenue Data
Mzwandile Masina, Chair of the Trade, Industry and Competition Committee, stated the ANC opposes banning regulated gambling. National Gambling Board figures show the sector provides 33,169 direct jobs. Indirect employment reaches more than 144,000 positions across South Africa.
The industry contributed approximately $334 million in taxes and levies during the 2024-25 financial year. Masina noted the ANC-led government continues acting against gambling industry challenges. He dismissed claims of government inactivity on the issue.
Legislative History Becomes Debate Focus
ANC MP Sheila Xego called the opposition debate a performative act. She referenced the National Gambling Act of 1996 as demonstrating prompt government action. The legislation became a model for other African countries after implementation.
Xego explained the 2008 Amendment Act remained unenacted because provisions became outdated. The rapidly changing gambling sector rendered the legislation obsolete. She defended the government’s decision to avoid implementing outdated regulatory frameworks.
Chance stated online gambling revenues largely flow offshore to foreign companies. He argued this enriches international operators at the expense of South African consumers. The parliamentary debate highlighted ongoing tensions over gambling regulation approaches between ruling and opposition parties.
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