Asia
Navigating Japan’s Evolving iGaming Landscape: Insights and Predictions with Sachiko West
Current State of the Market (2024)
How would you describe the current state of the iGaming market in Japan in 2024? Have there been any significant milestones or shifts this year?
Despite the uncertainty of how the future Police campaigns will change the iGaming landscape in Japan, the number of online casino users including sports bettors seems to be growing steadily, and more online casinos are entering the Japanese market. One thing in common within the industry is that companies no longer hire anyone based in Japan for the Japanese market.
What are the most popular types of games or gambling activities among Japanese players right now?
Social casino games are on the up. Besides Pachinko-type slots, Plinko, Crash and Hi-Lo are increasingly popular among casino players.
How has the regulatory environment evolved in 2024? Have there been any notable changes that impacted operators or consumers?
In 2024, the Japanese Police arrested more people than the previous years in relation to use of online casinos. Streamers have become a clear target as well as payment providers based in Japan. Encouraged by the current Prime Minister’s support, the Police declared in August that they would investigate more iGaming affiliates and online casino operators even outside Japan. The Police made over 100 arrests so far in 2024 in relation to use of online casinos.
With more risks associated with promoting online casinos, streamers command higher fees than ever. Some YouTubers are migrating to other platforms trying to avoid detection by the Police.
What role has mobile gaming played in shaping the iGaming market in Japan, and how does it compare to desktop or other platforms?
Japan is a mobile market. Over 70% of players play on a mobile phone. As they are also technology-driven people, the usability of the casino platform on mobile phones could be the key to acquire and retain players. Those operators who study the Japanese mobile players’ behaviour and preferences would have enjoyed better results in both casino and sports betting in 2024.
Have advancements in technology, such as blockchain or virtual reality, been widely adopted in Japan’s iGaming sector?
More and more people are shifting to using cryptocurrency when they play online casinos. The demographics of crypt users are also wider in Japan. User age could be up to 60.
Challenges and Opportunities
What do you see as the biggest challenges currently facing operators and other stakeholders in the Japanese market?
Japan is an affiliate-driven market. The affiliate/ streamer costs are expected to increase as the risks increase. As direct marketing i.e. through local media is limited, boosting brand awareness can be tricky. You have to come up with creative ideas and catch the right moment.
With increasing competition from both local and international operators, how are companies differentiating themselves to attract Japanese players?
To start with, operators tend to hire native Japanese speakers to make sure the site is fully localized and to meet the needs of Japanese users. Then the branding. They also tend to offer bonuses and promotions that are appealing to Japanese users.
Are there any notable examples of successful partnerships between operators and local entities or institutions in Japan?
Live streaming providers and fighting event organisers are known to work with operators well.
How do you think offshore and unlicensed operators affect the market landscape and trust among consumers?
Not many unlicensed operators are known or promoted in the Japanese market.
Looking Ahead to 2025
What key trends or developments do you expect to emerge in Japan’s iGaming market in 2025?
More new Japanese players via social media would play at online casinos in 2025. More deposits will be made in cryptocurrency.
Are there specific regulatory reforms or discussions that might significantly impact the market next year?
The Police investigation efforts might impact the market, depending on who is involved and when they happen.
With the market’s growth, do you foresee new entrants, both local and international, establishing a foothold in Japan?
I expect to see more newcomers in the Japanese market, as they have room for growth. Having said that, they might struggle in the competition unless they have strong branding and region-specific strategies.
How important is localization for operators planning to enter or expand in the Japanese iGaming market? What should they prioritize?
It is extremely important to have the site fully localized. It is the top priority. Some affiliates don’t even work with you unless your site is fully localized and provides good Japanese customer support.
What technological innovations do you believe will drive growth in the iGaming sector in Japan in 2025?
Any functionality that brings about a community feel and better usability for users.
Insights and Predictions
Do you think Japan will ever move towards a more unified or liberal regulatory framework for online gambling? If so, what might catalyze this change?
Land casinos have been legalized and one is expected to be built in Osaka by 2030. Unfortunately, there is no sign of this new move being extended to online gambling in the near future. The government is opposed to it.
What advice would you give to iGaming companies looking to launch in Japan or expand their presence in 2025?
Look out for any new on the Police investigations on operators based outside Japan and any arrest of affiliates. You make sure to have native Japanese speakers to oversee the latest developments.
How do you see Japanese consumers’ preferences evolving in terms of gameplay, payment systems, and interaction with platforms?
Players always liked everything fast, but now they like it faster. Expectation of faster service in payments, game loading, support’s response, etc is higher than ever.
They also tend to like the feeling of ‘belonging’ whether as in VIP, community chat, player-to player activities.
Broader Market Perspectives
Lastly, what excites you the most about the future of iGaming in Japan?
As Japanese people are more familiar with international sporting events with live streaming services, I believe that the sports betting market will grow in the future. There have been talks within the government to legalize sports betting, too.
The post Navigating Japan’s Evolving iGaming Landscape: Insights and Predictions with Sachiko West appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
The resignation of the top PAGCOR leadership came even before the Palace called on all officials of government-owned or controlled corporations (GOCCs) to submit their courtesy resignations on Wednesday.
“We serve at the pleasure of the President,” Mr. Tengco said. “And we will accept whatever the Chief Executive’s decision will be.”
Along with Mr. Tengco, those who voluntarily stepped down were PAGCOR President and COO Wilma Eisma and Directors Jose Maria Ortega, Francis Democrito Concordia and Gilbert Cesar Remulla.
The post PAGCOR CHAIRMAN, ENTIRE BOARD TENDER COURTESY RESIGNATION appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Asia
BETBY TO TAKE CENTER STAGE AT SiGMA ASIA MANILA WITH PARTICIPATION ON PANEL ABOUT EMERGING TECH IN SPORTS BETTING
BETBY, the forward-thinking sportsbook provider, has announced that its Head of Sportsbook Product, Kirill Nekrasov, will be joining a high-level panel at the upcoming SiGMA Asia Manila 2025, taking place at the SMX Convention Center.
Set to speak on June 3rd at 3:15 PM on the SiGMA Stage, Nekrasov will contribute his expertise to the panel titled “Benefits and Use Cases of Emerging Tech For Sports and eSports.” The session will explore how innovative technologies are transforming both the operational and experiential sides of the sports and esports industries. From AI-driven engagement tools and tokenized fan communities to performance-based crowdfunding and new revenue models, the discussion will highlight the disruptive potential of tech across the betting ecosystem.
Kirill will be joined on stage by a distinguished group of thought leaders, including Dr Jane Thomason, Emeritus Chair of the World Metaverse Council; Joebert Yu, Secretary General of the Philippine Electronic Sports Organization (PESO); Tryke Gutierrez, CEO of Tier One Entertainment; and Leo Andrew “Jab” Escutin, General Manager of the Sibol National Esports Team.
With a strong background in product development and a deep understanding of sportsbook innovation, Nekrasov is uniquely positioned to offer insight into how these emerging technologies can be practically applied to deliver more engaging, personalised and scalable betting experiences.
“More than an enabler, technology nowadays is a driver of entirely new market dynamics,” commented Kirill Nekrasov. “At BETBY, we see incredible potential in AI, automation and data analytics not only to streamline sportsbook operations, but to create richer, more immersive user journeys. I’m excited to join this panel and share how we’re applying these concepts through, for instance, our proprietary esports solution Betby.Games.”
While Nekrasov’s participation in the panel will be a highlight, BETBY’s broader presence at SiGMA Asia Manila will also reflect its growing commitment to the Asian market. Situated at stand 2143, the BETBY team will be on hand throughout the event to showcase its industry-leading, localised sportsbook solution and engage with stakeholders on the region’s evolving demands and opportunities.
The post BETBY TO TAKE CENTER STAGE AT SiGMA ASIA MANILA WITH PARTICIPATION ON PANEL ABOUT EMERGING TECH IN SPORTS BETTING appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Global entertainment company drives talent search and affiliate program across the region
Parimatch, the global entertainment company, will join SiGMA Manilla, the premier regional gaming event, renewing its commitment to Southeast Asia and showcasing its top-level services and partnership opportunities.
Parimatch’s presence at SiGMA Manilla coincides with the launch of the Parimatch employer brand in Southeast Asia in the second quarter of the year and a dedicated Asia careers site on June 1, with over 100 open roles.
The company will also be expanding its highly successful affiliate program Parimatch AFF across the region, offering exclusive terms and full support for solo media buyers and teams with high quality traffic. The program is already operating globally, including in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Europe.
The company’s stand (N2145) will feature the exciting events and offers that have come to be expected from the premium global brand. Come and meet the Parimatch team, connect and close deals; join winning premium giveaways and win luxury prizes, grab exclusive merchandize, and relax in our chill bar zone.
Parimatch is also an official sponsor of the Affiliate Retreat by SiGMA, a three-day retreat for affiliates in stunning El Nido.
Parimatch’s presence at SiGMA Manila this year highlights the brand’s renewed focus on expanding its highly successful affiliate program, PM AFF, and attracting top talent across Southeast Asia. The company continues to invest in a people-first, performance-driven culture — something visitors will experience firsthand at the Parimatch stand. The team looks forward to reconnecting with long-term partners and forging new relationships during the event.
The post Parimatch renews commitment to Southeast Asia at SiGMA Manilla appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
-
Balkans4 weeks agoEvoplay partners with Hrvatska Lutrija to expand reach in Croatia
-
Balkans3 weeks ago
SYNOT Games Signs Strategic Partnership with Star Bet
-
Press Releases4 weeks ago
Cash Pig 2 is here and it’s bringing even more Vegas-style thrills to the reels!
-
Giorgia Kasat3 weeks ago
Reals Appoints Giorgia Kasat as New Head of HR, Strengthening Organizational Strategy in the Betting Industry
-
Press Releases3 weeks ago
PG Soft unleashes Knockout Riches title
-
Compliance Updates2 weeks ago
AOJND and FEDBET to Appoint Expert Task Force to Support ONJN in Combating the Illegal Gambling Market
-
Press Releases4 weeks ago
Olympian Legends: Galaxsys’ New Slot Game Inspired by Ancient Myths
-
Asia4 weeks ago
IGT Unveils Advanced Product and Solutions Portfolio at G2E Asia 2025
