DigiPlus Interactive Corp is looking at South Africa as its second international market amid regulatory headwinds in the Philippines.
The company said it is preparing to file license applications with the Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board (WCGRB).
“We are thrilled to take this next bold step in our international journey,” DigiPlus chairman Eusebio Tanco said in a stock exchange disclosure on Thursday.
“South Africa is not just the largest online gaming market in Africa, it’s a gateway to the continent’s digital future. As we expand from Southeast Asia to Latin America and now Africa, we remain committed to responsible innovation, local compliance, and developing products that connect deeply with culture and community,” he said.
DigiPlus said it would seek three licenses: a national manufacturer license, a bookmaker license, a bookmaker premises license and a key employee license.
South Africa’s online betting industry was valued at more than 28.97 billion rand (about $1.6 billion) in 2023 and 2024 and is projected to grow by up to 5 percent annually. Growth is driven by mobile phone use, an increasingly digital population and strong demand for live sports betting.
The market is widely seen as a flagship for regulated online gambling in Africa. A proposed Remote Gambling Bill could expand legal gambling formats to include online casinos, signaling potential for long-term growth.
The licensing process in South Africa begins with probity checks for both the company and its ultimate beneficial owners.
Once completed, applications are submitted for board review and platform testing. The entire process takes at least six months. DigiPlus is also establishing a local legal entity, as required by law, to allow foreign ownership and management.
South Africa will be DigiPlus’ second overseas expansion, following its entry into Brazil.
The company earlier said it is on track to launch its Brazil operations in September 2025.
DigiPlus’ expansion comes as legislators in the Philippines consider tightening rules on online gambling operations, particularly offshore gaming firms.
The company’s international push reflects its strategy to grow its presence in digital entertainment across emerging markets.
The share price of DigiPlus closed 0.92 percent lower at P27 Friday.
