Digitain, a sportsbook and iGaming platform supplier, has received a National Manufacturer Licence in South Africa. The company says it can now start commercial talks with South African operators. The licence was announced in early August.
What the licence allows
South Africa licenses the companies that build gambling software, not only the brands that take bets. A national manufacturer licence lets a supplier offer its products to licensed operators in the country. Digitain says the licence supports its growth plans in Africa and lets it begin talks with operators. Its products include a sportsbook and the Centrivo iGaming platform.
Reports do not all name the regulator. One report names the National Gambling Board. The coverage we found does not say which products were tested or what conditions came with the licence.
Where it fits in Digitain's plans
Digitain says the licence adds to other approvals this year, including a Danish live gaming licence in May and an Ontario registration in April. That shows a supplier building a list of licences across regulated markets, not betting on one.
What operators should check before talking to a supplier
- Ask for a copy of the licence and confirm it with the regulator.
- Ask which products the licence covers. A sportsbook approval does not automatically cover a casino platform.
- Ask what testing was done and by whom.
- Write into the contract what happens if the licence is suspended.
More suppliers are coming
South Africa has become a target for suppliers that want a regulated African base. Operators will have more sportsbook and platform choices as more suppliers get licensed. They will also have more to compare on price, features and support. Our guide to gaming tax in South Africa and Tanzania shows the costs that every supplier's pricing has to sit on top of.
What to watch next
Look for Digitain's first signed South African operator, and for any change to supplier rules as the country works on its online gambling laws. We have found no signed deals yet, and we will update this report when one is announced.
FAQ
What did Digitain get?
A National Manufacturer Licence in South Africa, announced in early August.
Can Digitain take bets from players now?
No. It is a supplier licence. It covers providing technology to licensed operators.
Has Digitain signed a South African operator?
We found no announcement of one. The company says it can now start talks.
