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A Pioneer in Responsible Gaming

Latest News
05 Mar 2026
By Sun International

30 Years of Partnership, Protection and Progress

At Sun International, responsible gaming is not only a compliance requirement, but it is a defining pillar of who we are. For three decades, our approach to responsible gaming has shaped how we operate, how we partner with regulators, and how we ensure the long-term sustainability of our business and the broader industry.

Building the Foundation

In 2000, Sun International launched South Africa’s first comprehensive responsible gambling programme that combined a national toll-free helpline, counselling and treatment services, public education, and ongoing research into gambling behaviour. At the time, it was one of the most progressive programmes globally.

This initiative laid the groundwork for what is today known as the National Responsible Gambling Programme (NRGP), administered by the South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF). As a founding member of the Foundation, Sun International has worked in close partnership with government regulators and industry stakeholders to establish a robust, tightly controlled regulatory framework that is internationally respected.

In 2002, when Chris Fismer, then Chairperson of South Africa’s National Gambling Board, was elected Vice Chairman of the international body representing regulators across more than 50 jurisdictions, it signalled global recognition of South Africa’s legislative model. Our proactive collaboration with regulators has been central to building that credibility.

Over the past year alone, Sun International contributed more than R7 million to support national responsible gambling initiatives across our casinos, sports betting and limited payout machines — reinforcing that sustainable gaming is a shared responsibility.

Embedding Protection into Operations

Responsible gaming at Sun International is embedded operationally across every touchpoint.

From visible on-site communications and trained surveillance teams to strict identity verification processes before issuing MVG cards, customer protection mechanisms are deeply integrated into our daily operations. Our employees receive accredited training through the NRGP to identify and appropriately respond to early signs of problem gambling.

Technology has further strengthened our controls. Facial recognition systems, successfully trialled at Sun City, assist in identifying minors and self-excluded individuals before they access gaming floors. Advanced monitoring tools are being phased in to enhance behavioural detection capabilities, ensuring early intervention where required.

Online, we employ layered identity verification processes and offer players a suite of protective tools, including deposit limits, stop-loss settings, “Take a Break” functionality, and self-exclusion. Individuals who self-exclude are removed from all marketing communications and may only be reinstated following professional counselling and formal clearance.

Responsible Marketing and Sustainable Growth

Our marketing practices are governed by stringent national and provincial gambling legislation. Campaigns are submitted to relevant regulators where required, and a proportion of our advertising spend is dedicated to promoting responsible gaming awareness.

We view responsible gaming not as a constraint to growth, but as a prerequisite for it. Sustainable gaming ensures customer trust, regulatory confidence, and long-term shareholder value. It protects vulnerable individuals while safeguarding the integrity of our operations.

A Permanent Priority

As we look to the future, our commitment remains clear: responsible gaming will continue to evolve alongside technology, regulatory developments, and global best practice. Our history demonstrates that we do not simply comply with regulation, we help shape it.

We invite stakeholders to review our latest Sustainability Report for a comprehensive overview of our responsible gaming performance and governance framework, or to contact our Investor Relations team for further regulatory transparency and engagement.

For Sun International, responsible gaming is not an initiative. It is a legacy, and a permanent commitment to sustainable industry leadership.

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