Africa & Asia Advances in Online Casino Markets

Key Takeaways:

• Africa's iGaming sector continues to attract major operator focus, with established players consolidating positions and eyeing further growth in key territories.
• Asia-Pacific markets like New Zealand and the Philippines show signs of regulatory evolution and market preparation, influencing operator strategies.
• Global industry gatherings in February 2026 highlight opportunities in underserved regions, signaling increased investment and collaboration.

Africa's iGaming Growth Sustains Momentum with Operator Ambitions

Africa remains a standout region for online casino and iGaming expansion, with operators leveraging regulatory stability in select markets to drive revenue and market share. Super Group, through its Betway Africa brand, has solidified its dominance in multiple African territories, holding podium positions in seven out of eight markets. The company is now targeting a top online casino position in Nigeria, where regulatory clarity has improved, allowing for stronger consolidation. This follows impressive regional performance, with Africa and Middle East contributing significantly to group revenues in recent periods—highlighting the continent's potential as a high-growth area for online casino offerings.

Upcoming events underscore this trajectory: the BiG Africa Summit is scheduled for February 16-19, 2026, in Gaborone, Botswana, positioning it as the continent's premier forum for discussing regulation, market opportunities, and expansion strategies in betting and gaming. Such gatherings are expected to facilitate partnerships and integrity-focused initiatives across African jurisdictions.

Source: https://igamingbusiness.com/strategy/super-group-betway-africa-nigeria

New Zealand iGaming Market Eyes 2027 Launch Amid Regulatory Preparations

In the Asia-Pacific region, New Zealand's regulated online casino market is progressing toward an early 2027 launch, following delays from initial expectations around mid-2026. Industry observers note this shift reflects ongoing government deliberations on framework details, player protections, and licensing structures. The development is poised to open a new, regulated environment for operators and providers, potentially attracting international entrants seeking diversified revenue streams beyond saturated markets.

This timeline adjustment aligns with broader Asia-Pacific trends, where jurisdictions are balancing growth opportunities with responsible gaming measures. The market's evolution could influence neighboring territories and draw attention from global software providers and operators preparing entry strategies.

Source: https://www.gamelounge.com/news/new-zealand-igaming-market-2027-launch

Philippines iGaming Regulations Poised to Spur Market Consolidation

The Philippines continues to refine its iGaming regulatory landscape, with new rules potentially accelerating consolidation among operators and providers. Recent discussions point to stricter compliance and licensing requirements that could reshape the competitive environment, favoring larger, well-resourced entities capable of meeting elevated standards. This shift is part of efforts to enhance integrity, player safety, online casino game variety, and sustainable market development in one of Asia's key online gaming hubs.

Such regulatory tweaks often lead to partnerships or mergers as companies adapt, ensuring long-term viability in a market known for its blend of local and international online casinos.

Source: https://igamingbusiness.com/igaming/new-philippines-igaming-regs-could-drive-consolidation/

Industry Events Signal Global Collaboration in Emerging Regions

February 2026 features prominent iGaming events spotlighting non-traditional markets. SiGMA Eurasia (February 9–11 in Dubai, UAE) bridges Middle East and broader opportunities, while the BiG Africa Summit emphasizes Africa's regulatory and expansion dialogue. These platforms foster partnerships between operators, providers, and regulators, underscoring trends toward cross-border collaboration and integrity enhancements in online casino sectors.

Overall, the industry is prioritizing sustainable growth in Africa and Asia-Pacific through strategic positioning and forward-looking regulation, setting the stage for expanded market access and innovation.