South African Regulatory Bill Awaits President's Signature

29 May 2008

By Emily D. Swoboda

Interactive Gaming News has confirmed that the National Gambling Amendment Bill has been approved by South Africa's Parliament. The bill now awaits the signature of President Thabo Mbeki

Wayne Lurie, a South African attorney specializing in commercial, Internet and Internet-gaming-related law, told IGN that he has learned that the bill passed through the National Assembly last week despite some initial confusion as to whether it indeed had.

Mr. Lurie said he would not expect to see the opportunity to apply for licenses arise this year, as regulations on licensing and enforcement must now be written.

However, some progress has been made on the draft rules, he said.

In addition, a separate, related bill dealing with the taxation of Internet gambling transactions must still receive approval from Parliament, which may reach a decision within a month or so.

Meanwhile, Mr. Mbeki is in Yokohama, Japan, this week for the 4th Tokyo International Conference on African Development.

IGN was unable to reach the National Gambling Board Wednesday for comment.

South African Regulatory Bill Awaits President's Signature is republished from iGamingNews.com.