Africa and Asia Drive Online Casino Expansion
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Key Takeaways:
- Africa continues to show strong potential for scalable online casino growth, driven by mobile penetration and adaptable strategies.
- Vietnam advances its regulated casino market with premium offerings targeting locals.
- Questions arise over the legitimacy and oversight of Anjouan licenses used in online casino software provision.
Africa's Online Casino Growth Potential Spotlighted
At ICE Barcelona 2026 in early February, SOFTSWISS and KingMakers highlighted Africa as a major growth opportunity for online casinos. The discussion focused on how scalable success depends on localization rather than simply copying European market strategies. In South Africa, for example, operators have seen stronger results by adapting casino game formats and mechanics to local player preferences.
Speakers also emphasized retention as a key driver, pointing to low-stakes gameplay, smarter bonus management, and personalized offers powered by player analytics. These tools help operators build long-term value in mobile-heavy markets where affordability and trust are essential.
Africa’s expanding smartphone usage, improving connectivity, and young demographic make it attractive for sustainable growth. However, regulatory conditions vary widely across the continent, requiring operators to cooperate closely with authorities and prioritize compliance. SOFTSWISS’ partnership with Pantherbet strengthens its presence in South Africa and reflects the importance of local partnerships in navigating licensing and player protection requirements.
Vietnam's Corona Resort & Casino Launches Premium Mass Segment
On February 9, 2026, Corona Resort & Casino on Phu Quoc Island launched “Corona Premium Mass,” a luxury gaming segment designed for high-value players. The area offers private environments, personalized services, and elevated betting limits, including Online Baccarat game bets up to VND1 billion with minimums starting at VND10 million.
This development reflects the casino’s effort to strengthen its appeal to premium domestic customers, supported by its rare permanent approval to allow Vietnamese online gambling. Unlike trial-based models seen elsewhere, Corona’s policy creates a stable foundation for long-term local market growth.
With a large casino floor, modern operating systems, and a wide mix of table games and slots, Corona continues to position itself as Vietnam’s leading regulated gaming property. The new premium segment also signals a broader trend across Asia toward more upscale casino experiences tailored to local demand.
Scrutiny Over Anjouan (Comoros) Online Casino Licensing Practices
In February 4, 2026, Le Monde investigation raised concerns over the use of Anjouan (Comoros) licenses in the online casino sector. The report revealed that Relax Gaming, now linked to France’s FDJ through its Kindred acquisition, obtained an Anjouan B2B license in November 2025 to supply online casino software such as virtual slot games.
Anjouan has become controversial due to claims that it issues large numbers of gambling licenses despite gambling being illegal under Comorian law. Critics argue the licensing system lacks meaningful oversight, with allegations of scams, weak consumer protection, and potential money laundering risks.
The case highlights growing industry concerns about regulatory credibility and reputational exposure. It also raises questions about how major software suppliers and operators manage compliance and due diligence when working with jurisdictions viewed as offshore licensing hubs.
