Online gambling in South Africa is surging. The National Gambling Board (NGB) reports gross gambling revenue of R59.3 billion in 2023/24, up 25.7% year on year. Betting drove the jump while casinos were flat, reflecting a clear shift in punter behaviour during and after COVID-19. Sun International’s results show the trend: its casinos’ income dipped 1.4% but its online arm, SunBet, climbed 70.7%. Stats SA data backs this up. Bookmakers and online gambling services generated R152.6 billion in 2023 from services rendered, up from R10.1 billion in 2018, while traditional casino activity lagged.
Households Spend More on Gambling
Gambling now carries a 1.6% weight in the 2025 CPI basket, the 12th-highest overall—just behind beer. Within the recreation, sport & culture group, gambling accounts for more than half of household spending. The market has flipped from the 2009/10 era when casinos dominated; their share has fallen sharply as online betting expands.
Addiction and Youth at Risk
Problem gambling is rising fast. The NGB notes an eightfold increase in identified problem gamblers—from 375 in 2020/21 to 2,977 in 2023/24—with the 25–35 age band most affected. Rise Mzansi MP Makashule Gana warns the country could “lose a generation” without stronger safeguards and proper funding for the South African Responsible Gambling Foundation.
What the Law Says—and Where to Get Help
The NGB has intensified action against unlawful sites, stressing that “online gambling is unlawful and unacceptable” until Parliament enacts a regulatory framework under the National Gambling Act (Act 7 of 2004). Section 11 bans unauthorised interactive gaming; winnings from illegal online gambling may be forfeited to the state.
To report illegal operators, email info@ngb.org.za or call 010 003 3475. For free counselling, contact SARGF on 0800 006 008 or WhatsApp 076 675 0710.
Online gambling in South Africa is reshaping the industry—and regulators, operators and communities must act now to keep it safe, licensed and fair.
