South Africa’s NLC and NCC Sign MoU to Strengthen Consumer Protection
The National Lotteries Commission (NLC) and the National Consumer Commission (NCC) partnered to enhance consumer protection following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Tshwane on 13 May 2026.
The partnership focuses on several key areas of collaboration, most notably joint compliance, investigation, and enforcement initiatives. These efforts are designed to curb lotteries and promotional competitions that contravene either the Lotteries Act or the Consumer Protection Act. Additionally, the two bodies will share information on best practices and conduct joint seminars, workshops, and research aimed at protecting consumers.
To streamline their operations, the NCC and NLC are developing a framework for the classification of complaints. This system will guide the referral process between the two agencies, ensuring that matters of mutual concern are handled consistently. Beyond the formal agreement, both parties have committed to developing specific strategies and time-bound action plans to ensure the effective implementation of the MoU’s objectives.
During the signing ceremony, NLC Commissioner Ms. Jodi Scholtz said: “This MoU is long overdue. As the regulator of the National Lottery and Sports Pools, the Lotteries Act requires the Commission to conduct its business with integrity and to protect all participants.”
The NLC was established under the Lotteries Act of 1997 to regulate the National Lottery and sports pools while maximising revenue for good causes. The NCC, established under the Consumer Protection Act of 2008, works to promote a fair, accessible, and sustainable marketplace by prohibiting unfair business practices. The agreement establishes a formal framework for cooperation and coordination between the NLCa nd the NCC regarding the regulation of lotteries, sports pools, and gambling.
NCC Acting Commissioner Mr. Hardin Ratshisusu expressed his commitment to the partnership’s success, stating:
“We are pleased to have signed this MoU with the NLC and look forward to its successful implementation. We are going to collaborate on all matters relating to lotteries, sports pools and gambling to curb non-compliance with our respective statutes to ensure consumers are protected.”
