The National Treasury has released a draft discussion paper proposing a national online gambling tax, inviting public comment ahead of the 30 January deadline. The paper highlights the rapid growth of online gambling in South Africa, noting its social consequences and the burden of problem gambling on society.
The Treasury states that regulation is necessary to curb harmful behaviour and protect the public interest. The proposal follows a recent report from the National Gambling Board revealing that students have misused National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) funds for online betting. The report shows that South Africans wagered 1.1 trillion rand on gambling in 2024, a 40.2% increase from the previous year, raising concerns about financial irresponsibility and addiction.
The draft paper aims to gather feedback on how an online gambling tax could be structured, balancing economic growth, social responsibility, and public protection. Interested members of the public and stakeholders are encouraged to review the document on Treasury’s website and submit their comments before the 30 January deadline.
VOC News
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