South Africa Moves to Tighten Advertising Controls as Problem Gambling Hits 31%

The National Gambling Board (NGB) has revealed that 31% of South Africans now show signs of problem gambling, prompting the government to announce new plans to regulate gambling advertising more strictly.

According to the NGB’s latest report, based on a survey of 4,000 respondents, gambling participation stands at 65.7%, with roughly one in three exhibiting problem-gambling indicators. The regulator attributes the sharp rise to the surge in online betting and unchecked promotion of gambling via digital platforms. 

Deputy Trade and Industry Minister Zuko Godlimpi told Parliament that the government will back significantly tougher rules on gambling advertising, including restrictions on timing, sponsorship visibility, celebrity endorsements and digital marketing. 

The NGB emphasised that many new gamblers are lured by the narrative of quick money — especially young people, and those relying on social grants or facing high unemployment. “It’s very dangerous because you will find that some of the basics you’re supposed to be covering in the house, your kids’ food, your belongings, are being sacrificed,” said Acting CEO Lungile Dukwana.

In response, the Strategic Plan 2025/26 – 2029/30 for the regulator outlines proposed measures including:

• stricter time-of-day restrictions and content regulations on gambling ads;
  
  
• mandatory affordability checks and monthly spend limits for players;
  
  
• enhanced blocking of illegal offshore gambling platforms in partnership with banks and telecom operators.
  
  

Industry analysts say the intervention is overdue. With gross gambling revenue topping R75 billion in the past year, and turnover exceeding R1.5 trillion, the scale of the industry’s growth has outpaced regulatory safeguards.

However, they warn that mere advertising restrictions will not suffice. Structural issues — high youth unemployment, financial illiteracy and social inequality — must also be addressed to prevent gambling from becoming a substitute for income. The Sunday Times editorial stated:

“South Africa is at a crossroads. The gambling industry cannot be allowed to grow unchecked while destroying the very society that feeds it.”