South Africa Still Debating Advertising Laws for Casinos
One of the biggest problems in today’s market of gambling is regulation. Though some countries are supportive of gambling and its advertisements, there are still some that are stepping in to deny various promotion. South Africa is one of these countries. It is no secret that the country has long been pushing for changes in gambling but legislators are not open. In fact, they have stood staunchly against gambling and its legalization. So far the government is undecided on the issue as a whole and that is coming to a head now that the government is stepping in the way of advertisers. Advertisers want to push their products to the market. Gambling companies know that there are potentially millions of dollars to be had with their customer bases. They are pushing for changes in the market that can help them to realize those millions on a consistent basis. The South African government however is making things difficult for companies as the country debates gambling as a whole.
The Department of Trade and Industry of Africa is so far following the lead of British regulations on gambling company advertising. The country is making regulations for gambling advertisers somewhat similar to the hefty regulations that liquor distributors have to work under. There is one shortfall though—they aren’t dictating what companies should expect in terms of print advertising from gambling companies. This window is leaving a clear door open for gambling giants to write their own rules. This window may not be open for long though. Thus far casino companies and industry insiders have been given just one month to debate out any suggestions they have regarding promotions and advertising. So far advertisers on television have to limit their gambling ads to what is defined as the “nighttime” hours. Restrictions could grow tougher as the market moves on. It doesn’t seem like the gambling world in South Africa is going to be sorted out any time soon and it could have more restrictions on it before arguments are finished. Only time will tell what happens, but South Africa is shaping up to be a country not enamored by the millions of potential tax revenue dollars gambling has to offer.
Tags: advertise, debate, law, South Africa
