(AsiaGameHub) –   LiveScore Group has officially introduced Virgin Bet to South Africa, marking the brand’s first international expansion outside of the United Kingdom.

The new online platform, found at Virginbet.co.za, aligns with LiveScore Group’s strategic objective to increase its footprint across Africa, according to a company statement on Monday.

Operations for the new site will be managed from the group’s established betting hub in Nigeria, which also handles the LiveScore Bet brand.

The continent’s premier regulated gambling landscape

South Africa is recognized as the largest regulated gambling market in Africa, with oversight provided by both national and provincial regulators.

According to the National Gambling Board (NGB), the country saw 1.5 trillion South African Rand ($89 billion) in total wagers during the 2024/2025 fiscal year, representing a 31.3% rise from the previous year.

The sports betting sector made up 75% of these wagers, while casinos accounted for 19.5%. Bingo and limited payout machines (LPMs) contributed 1.8% and 3.6%, respectively. As of 2024, the gambling industry supported approximately 34,316 jobs, per NGB data.

Meanwhile, South Africa’s National Treasury has proposed a 20% tax levy for digital gambling, suggesting a transition toward a more regulated and higher-tax environment for online betting—a move that has faced opposition from the industry.

A focus on player safety and responsibility

The operator stated that the new platform features various player protection tools, such as self-exclusion, time-out periods, and deposit limits. To ensure regulatory compliance and user assistance, the site will utilize age verification and a dedicated local support staff.

Gail Odgers, the head of marketing for Virgin Bet South Africa, commented on the launch, stating that the company is dedicated to establishing a trustworthy brand that South African players can rely on.

Additionally, the firm has committed to launching local corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs focused on advocating for safer gambling within the community.

The South African site is designed to cater to the nation’s large and growing sports betting audience, with a particular emphasis on major sports like rugby, cricket, and football.

Odgers further noted that the local passion for sports, which are a staple of daily life, makes South Africa a highly attractive market for the company.