Dear Portfolio Committee on Trade, Industry and Competition, this is Thabisile from amandla.mobi, we work on amplifying the voices of low-income Black women, and we are writing to you and other Ministers to ensure the new Government of National Unity will unite behind the interests of the people.

Before us we have a petition calling for immediate action in regards to online gambling and its harmful effects especially on vulnerable children, read more here: https://awethu.amandla.mobi/petitions/limit-online-gambling-to-protect-our-communities-1

A small community organisation with the aim of highlighting the issue with online gambling has set up this petition and detailed how key stakeholders such as National Gambling Board, South African Reserve Bank and Government at large should heed the call to protect communities from the devastating effects of gambling. Their demands are listed in the shared petition link.

We are also aware that the remote gambling bill is currently in front of the National Assembly as of April this year. We are therefore writing this email to find out what the progress of the Bill looks like? It is a good step that a remote gambling bill has been tabled, it would be ideal if the bill were to be passed and strengthened to prevent illegal online gambling operations and protect vulnerable individuals such as those with addiction issues.

Furthermore upon reading the bill, these are some of the loopholes identified:

Potential loopholes:
1. Lack of clear definitions for "vulnerable individuals" and "responsible gambling tools"
2. Insufficient measures to prevent illegal online gambling operations and protect players from unlicensed operators.
3. No explicit provisions for funding or resources to support responsible gambling intiatives or treatment programs.
4. Potential for operators to exploit loopholes in advertising and marketing regulations.
5. Limited emphasis on age verification and prevention of underage gambling.

Recommendations:
1. Strengthen language and definitions related to vulnerable individuals and responsible gambling tools.
2. Include measures to prevent illegal online gambling operations and protect players.
3. Provide funding and resources for responsible gambling intiatives and treatment programs.
4. Tighten advertising and marketing regulations to prevent exploitation.
5. Emphasize age verification and prevention of underage gambling.

By addressing these loopholes and strengthening the bill, it can better protect communities from the harmful effects of online gambling. We would like to hear of the progression of the bill and once public comments open we would like to make submissions.

Thank you.