iGaming expansion in emerging markets presents both opportunities and regulatory challenges, requiring adaptive strategies and local partnerships. The presence of a predominantly tech-oriented young population and increasing internet connectivity are the main factors that drive iGaming adoption in these regions. The industry has recently experienced significant changes since gambling control organizations aim to improve the regulations regarding fairness, protect players, and, at the same time, benefit from revenue potential.
Governments in emerging economies are trying to overcome challenges related to the legalization and regulation of this highly dynamic industry. This article explores the recent legislative updates in emerging regions, the effects of iGaming expansion, and the proactive measures operators can undertake to stay compliant and remain competitive.
WHICH EXACTLY ARE THE EMERGING REGIONS?
The countries around the globe can be classified according to their economic, political, cultural, and institutional status. Those with weaker attributes are referred to as low-income countries, while those with stable and reliable features are classified as high-income countries.
In between the two classes are the emerging markets characterized by:
- Large population
- Strong, sustainable economic growth, which is expected to continue in the future.
- Significant progress in reducing poverty, illiteracy, infant mortality, and communicable diseases.
- A stable political environment with relatively effective governance, judicial, healthcare, transport, education, and other systems that encourage local and foreign investments.
Countries falling under this category include some jurisdictions in Latin America, Africa, Asia, and Eastern Europe. Brazil, Argentina, Kenya, South Africa, Nigeria, Bulgaria, Turkey, and India are perfect examples of emerging markets.
Luckily, reputable platforms like iGaming.com, an online marketing and lead generation for the iGaming industry, play a crucial role in helping gambling-oriented companies understand and navigate the regulatory framework in these regions.
LATIN AMERICA
Latin America has established itself as a critical player in the future of the global iGaming market. Brazil, Argentina, Peru, and Colombia have taken the lead regarding gambling legislation.
These countries have created opportunities for players to access online casino games, sports betting, lotteries, and other forms of online gaming activities. Here are some of the main emerging economies in Latin America worth watching.
Brazil
This country was previously considered the sleeping giant in the region. This was due to its long-term dormancy within the iGaming sphere. However, Brazil has recently changed this view after enacting new legislation allowing online casinos and sports betting. This has created plenty of opportunities for operators.
However, they must face issues related to strict payment restrictions, with cash, credit cards, checks, pay slips, and cryptocurrencies all banned on some platforms. Electronic transfer is the only withdrawal option allowed and must be authorized by the central bank.
Understanding iGaming regulations in Brazil is difficult since most of the information has been spread across different government websites like the Secretariat of Evaluation, Planning, Energy, and Lottery (SECAP) and the Ministry of Finance.
Argentina
Argentina has adopted the United States’ approach to iGaming, with regulation varying from state to state. The lack of standard national online gambling laws is a warning sign for operators trying to keep up with the constant changes in the different states.
For example, Buenos Aires has recently stopped licensing new online casinos due to concerns about the effect of gambling on minors.
Peru
Having recently allowed online gambling, Peru demands operators meet strict requirements related to Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) policies. The new regulations that aim to promote fair gaming and protect players have boosted license applications from both local and foreign companies.
Colombia
With licensing online gambling in 2016 through the eGaming Act, Colombia has seen tremendous growth in online casinos, sportsbooks, bingo, and poker platforms. The market has increased, with local sports betting being the most popular segment.
The country was the first to legalize online gambling in Latin America and has a well-established regulatory framework.
AFRICA
The African iGaming market is expected to reach USD1.90 billion in 2024, with an annual growth of 5.81% between 2024 and 2029. The different jurisdictions in the region have various online gambling laws, and some countries adopt different approaches. Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa are the leaders in adopting online gaming activities.
Kenya
The Kenyan market is well-regulated and offers various options, such as sports betting and online casinos. This has attracted local and international companies to start operating in the country.
However, foreign gaming sites must partner with local companies to be allowed to operate in the country. This leads to improved monitoring, creating local job opportunities, and boosting tax revenues for the government.
Nigeria
The Nigerian iGaming landscape is dominated by sports betting, with football and virtual sports taking center stage.
South Africa
The online gambling industry in South Africa is still in its early stages. In their attempt to establish better regulations, the governing authorities try to overcome different issues regarding legality. The land-based gaming activities in the country are well-established, though, and the government is trying to
Companies and controlling bodies are struggling to overcome legal issues and establish clearer regulations. Meanwhile, the country’s land-based gaming activities are well-regulated, and this is the reason why currently, the government’s goal is to extend this to online platforms.
STRATEGIES TO STAY COMPLIANT WITH REGULATORY CHANGES
Operators must develop robust strategies to comply with the emerging markets’ increasing licensing requirements and payment restrictions. Compliance with cultural requirements, age verification, KYC, and AML regulations remains essential in emerging regions.
Dynamic Technology Platforms
Operators must invest in flexible technology solutions allowing them to adapt quickly to changes in the regulatory environment in these new regions.
Specialized Compliance Teams
Online gambling operators should have professional compliance teams to monitor changes in emerging markets. These teams should work closely with legal experts to guide them on changing business operations and adapting to region-specific regulations. A proactive compliance approach minimizes the risk of breaking local rules, which can lead to fines, penalties, or license revocation.
Partnerships with Local Companies
Collaborating with local operators, legal teams, and other companies in emerging markets provides a better understanding of the local regulatory environment. This enables foreign operators to navigate bureaucratic processes easier and mitigate risks.
Data-Driven Offerings
Operators should leverage AI and data analytics to monitor regulatory trends. Analyzing regulatory patterns enables operators to predict which regions the iGaming laws are likely to change and imply proactive measures to remain compliant. It also allows operators to spot possible opportunities from these changes.
Responsible Gaming Measures
Regulatory bodies in emerging markets are increasingly concerned about player protection, and therefore, operators must implement proactive measures, including different responsible gambling tools.
Using data analytics and AI to analyze player behavior could help operators design cutting-edge responsible gambling measures like gambling detection, deposit limits, self-exclusion tools, and personalized player messaging. We are also likely to start seeing organizations like Kevin O’Neill’s Responsible Gaming Foundation beginning to focus on emerging markets.
The online gambling industry in emerging regions continues to evolve as new regulatory approaches are often adopted. Staying compliant in these complex environments with unique challenges requires a proactive approach on behalf of gaming operators.
Dynamic platforms, specialized compliance teams, partnerships with local companies, data-driven offerings, and responsible gambling measures are crucial for operators willing to access these markets.
By carefully analyzing the specific regulatory changes, gaming platforms can reduce their chances of encountering problems with authorities. Besides, this can allow them to benefit from the opportunities these changes can provide.
