Impatience Grows Over Slow Online Gambling Bill

February 15 - The bill that will make online gambling in South Africa a legalized pastime has still not been implemented and impatience is growing among online gambling operators.

In July 2008, the President approved the National Gambling Amendment Bill which with the intention of legalizing internet gambling in South Africa.

However, nearly 2 years down the line, the South African constitution still defines online gambling as illegal.

There have been many hurdles along the way, including the latest request of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Trade and Industry to slow down the legalization process so that it could examine the legislation more in depth.

The delay has led to increased frustration among players and operators alike.

On the one hand, online gambling operators want to fit into a legalized and regulated industry and are willing to pay licensing fees and other levies.

However, the government's foot-dragging has led to many operators being unable to wait any longer and simply launching their sites in the industry with a 'hope-for-the-best' attitude.

Several operators have already applied for licenses as their impatience grows, with the Nomfundo Maseti from the Department of Trade and Industry noting that "they can't wait forever."

But there may be light at the end of the tunnel. Industry experts predict that by the middle of this year, the Gambling Review Committee will make its final report to Rob Davies, South Africa's Trade and Industry Minister.

The law will then pass through both House of Parliament, with its final destination being President Zuma's desk for approval.

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