How popular is online gambling and sports betting in South Africa?

Online gambling is very quickly becoming a global industry. There has been a rise in the popularity of virtual casinos, sports betting and a great variety of other games in many parts of the world. Online crypto gambling platforms are also becoming popular, and in African nations, such as South Africa, the number of active users has grown exponentially.

It is estimated that the online gaming industry, particularly sports betting south africa platforms, will grow at a compound annual growth rate of 12% between 2020 and 2025. South Africa might not be a country that comes to mind when it comes to online gambling, but it has become a standout performer in the industry, mostly due to the investment in a robust gambling infrastructure and regulation. Sun City, located in the North West part of the country, already derives its revenue mainly from gambling.

Sports betting is another pull factor for online gamblers. Most countries in Africa have their own sports leagues, and European football has a large following, especially in sub-Saharan Africa.

Football among the most popular sports

Sports betting numbers in ZA

Online gambling and sports betting have seen explosive growth in South Africa over the past few years. In 2023/24, the gambling industry reached a record-high revenue of 59.3 billion ZAR, with sports betting leading the charge. Online bookmakers alone generated 28.97 billion ZAR, accounting for nearly 49% of total gambling revenue. This surge is particularly impressive given that online betting is only legal in select provinces, including Limpopo, Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Mpumalanga, and North West. The rise of digital platforms has made betting more accessible, with players increasingly opting for mobile and online services over traditional land-based establishments.

The sports betting boom has also attracted major investments from local and international companies. South Africans placed R418 billion worth of bets in 2023, marking an 80% increase from the previous year. Established brands like Betway and Hollywoodbets dominate the market, while newcomers such as SuperSportBet aim to revolutionize the industry. The shift to online betting has not only changed consumer behavior but also intensified competition among operators, leading to aggressive marketing strategies and technological advancements to enhance user experience. As the industry continues to evolve, regulatory frameworks and responsible gambling initiatives will play a crucial role in shaping its future.

South Africa's betting landscape is increasingly shaped by the rapid adoption of mobile and digital technologies. More bettors are turning to smartphone apps and live-streamed wagering, making it easier to place bets in real time. This trend has encouraged operators to develop more user-friendly platforms, integrate AI-driven odds prediction, and offer personalized betting experiences. The convenience of digital betting has also led to an increase in younger players engaging in sports wagering, contributing to a new wave of enthusiasts. However, industry leaders continue to stress the importance of responsible gambling, with many platforms now incorporating self-exclusion tools and spending limits to promote safer betting habits.