South Africa’s National Gambling Board (NGB) has responded to criticism surrounding its recently launched public registry of licensed gambling operators, dismissing several media claims as inaccurate and misleading.
The regulator defended the new online portal after reports questioned the reliability of information displayed in the database, particularly within the section covering Limited Payout Machines (LPMs). These machines are commonly located in pubs, clubs, hotels, and other venues outside traditional casinos.
Confusion appears to have emerged after some licensed LPM venues were marked with the status “closed” on the registry. Critics reportedly suggested that the listings pointed to regulatory failures or illegal gambling activity.
The NGB rejected those conclusions, stating that the “closed” label does not automatically mean operators are acting unlawfully. According to the regulator, venues can receive that designation for several reasons, including renovations, unpaid administrative fees, temporary business interruptions, or ongoing disputes.
The authority stressed that claims questioning the integrity of the registry were unsupported unless there was proof that gambling activities continued illegally at those premises.
The regulator also addressed reports suggesting that the database excludes online gambling companies. The NGB said those accusations were incorrect, noting that licensed online sports betting operators, including Betway, are already listed on the platform.
Industry concerns over the registry have largely centered on how frequently the data is updated. The South African Bookmakers’ Association (SABA) previously welcomed the launch of the portal but urged the regulator to keep records current to avoid disadvantaging newly licensed operators.
SABA pointed out that several licences approved by Provincial Licensing Authorities in March 2026 had not yet appeared in the national database by early April. South Africa’s gambling framework relies on nine provincial regulators, which supply licensing information to the NGB system.
The NGB said it remains committed to improving cooperation with provincial authorities and strengthening oversight of the country’s regulated gambling market.