Lawmakers in South Africa are considering the relocation of the country’s casinos to the newly established Trade Bay and eastern region, much to the disappointment of many local gambling operators.

IOL News reported gambling operators opposed the enactment of the Western Cape Nineteenth Gambling and Racing Amendment Bill, 2018, which they claimed would lead to slumping gambling revenues, falling profits, and job loss if implemented.

The bill was intended to amend the existing Western Cape Gambling and Racing Act, 1996 (Act 4 of 1996), giving the Western Cape government the authority to allow existing casinos in five district municipal regions of the province to transfer in other areas.

While the bill has yet to be tabled before the legislative committee, South Africa-based casino operators like Sun International and Tsogo Sun Holdings Ltd. have expressed mixed opinions over the possible impact of the proposed bill to their operations.