Johannesburg - The gaming and betting industry could become a catalyst for socio-economic development in the province, according to KwaZulu-Natal premier Senzo Mchunu.
"I want to ensure that the revenue generated in the industry benefits all the people of this province," Mchunu, who is also the MEC for gaming and betting, told Parliament's portfolio committee on Friday night, according to a statement issued on Sunday.
"As of September alone, the provincial government has collected R206 934 million through casino tax and R36 290m through horse racing tax," he said, adding that the industry was now mature and well-established in the province.
Mchunu said he would meet the KwaZulu-Natal Gaming and Betting Board, casinos, bookmakers, totalisators, route operators and Gold Circle to discuss the development of the industry and issues around licensing.
"A strong gaming and betting industry will serve the interests of all of us as the people of KwaZulu-Natal," he said.
"Casinos, horse racing and tourism share a very strong and common bond."