Key Moments:
- Gambling has accounted for 1.6% of total household expenditures in South Africa, according to the National Gambling Board of South Africa’s 2023 report.
- The 2023/24 fiscal year saw gross gambling revenue reach R59.3 billion, reflecting a 25.7% increase compared to the prior year.
- Online gambling services, including sports betting, Lotto, and slots, are at the core of this growth, generating R152.6 billion in 2023, up from R10.1 billion in 2018.
Spending Trends Point Toward Gambling Industry Expansion
Household expenditure data reveals that gambling has grown into a major component of South African family budgets, ranking twelfth in spending and trailing only behind beer. Gambling has become the leading segment within the recreation, sport, and culture spending cluster, now capturing more than half of that cluster’s total spending. On a broader economic scale, the sector generates R4.8 billion for public finances and supports over 32,000 jobs, representing approximately 1% of the country’s GDP, as highlighted by Perpetua, an investment management firm.
Online Gambling Fuels Rapid Industry Growth
The expansion in gambling is largely driven by online activity. Sports betting accounts for 61% of participation, Lotto for 53%, and slots 52%. The activity has become part of weekly routines, with 62% of gamblers participating at least once a week, and almost 40% doing so even more often, according to Old Mutual’s Savings and Investment Monitor. The demographic most engaged includes men and those between the ages of 30 and 49.
The shift from traditional casinos to digital platforms is clear, as online and bookmaker services reported R152.6 billion in revenue for 2023, a sharp rise from R10.1 billion five years earlier. While land-based casinos have seen stagnant growth, internet-based providers are increasingly dominating the sector and altering the market landscape.
a losing game 🎲🎲
63% of gamblers surveyed in South Africa use money from essentials to gamble (not extra cash)
50% now actively include gambling in their monthly budget alongside rent & groceries — it’s a regular commitment
(Infoquest, 2025)
— Koshiek Karan (@iamkoshiek) August 18, 2025
Socioeconomic Impact and Associated Risks
Greater accessibility to online gambling has brought significant impacts to households. Old Mutual’s report notes almost half of employed gamblers now use these platforms to cover recurring expenses or pay down debt. Despite industry warnings such as “of all gambling strategies, knowing when to quit may be best,” from the National Gambling Board, participants often continue drawn by the allure of instant rewards.
Currently, about half a million individuals are engaged in online gambling, while many physical establishments also remain active. The prevalence of gambling in family finances has increased concerns about financial resilience and household well-being.
Industry Overview: Key Metrics
| Category | 2023/24 Value | Change from Previous Year |
|---|---|---|
| Gross Gambling Revenue | R59.3 billion | +25.7% |
| Online & Bookmaker Services Revenue | R152.6 billion (2023) | Up from R10.1 billion (2018) |
| Contribution to GDP | Approx. 1% | – |
| Jobs Supported | 32,000+ | – |
| Public Purse Contribution | R4.8 billion | – |
Challenges Ahead for Households and Regulators
As online gambling becomes increasingly ingrained in daily life, both its economic benefits and its risks to household stability are expected to prompt further scrutiny. Decision-makers and regulatory authorities will need to navigate these dynamics as consumer habits and internet access continue to evolve.
- Author
Daniel Williams
