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Thailand's Council of State is opposing legalizing casinos in Integrated Resorts, citing breaches of government policy. Thailand's Council of State is planning to oppose a measure that would legalize casinos within Integrated Resorts, claiming it was breaching government policy, according to a report.  Quoting an unidentified source, The Bangkok Post said on January 12 that the Council of State was concerned with the bill's narrow focus on comprehensive entertainment centers as inconsistent with the government's wider tourism plans. The Council of State of Thailand is essentially a legal advisory body to the Thai government. It plays a crucial role in ensuring that laws and government actions are in line with the constitution and existing legal frameworks. Current policy prioritizes integrated resorts, similar to Japan's IR Districts or Singapore's Marina Bay Sands, which combine hotels, shopping, entertainment, and conferences.  Gambling is a smaller revenue source within these destinations. Critics argue the Entertainment Complex Bill, with its focus on gambling facilities, strays from this established strategy. The council stressed the need for the Finance Ministry to clarify the bill's objectives to enable the cabinet to view the measure efficiently.  Instead, the council is pushing to amend the 1935 Gambling Act than enacting a new law. hey also stressed the need for the Finance Ministry to clarify the bill's objectives to facilitate a more effective cabinet review of its suitability. This adds to the list of hurdles the bill has to face. A TGM Research Study earlier showed that Thai people are "polarized and skeptical" about any proposal to legitimize casino.  A key provision of the Entertainment Complex Bill is the licensing requirement for gambling facilities operating solely within entertainment centers. The Finance Ministry projects significant economic impact from the bill, including annual increases of up to 475.5 billion baht in tourism revenue, 9,000–15,300 new jobs, and 12–39 billion baht in government revenue. Read related article:   Amid Casino Push: Thailand Eyes Legalizing Online Gambling

While global incidents decreased, a report said Asia remains a hotspot for matchfixing accounting for 50 % of suspicious matches. Sportradar's annual Integrity Report for 2024 paints a complex picture of the global fight against match-fixing. While the report highlights a decrease in suspicious matches worldwide, Asia remains a significant concern, accounting for a staggering 50% of all detected incidents.  The report, acquired by Asia Casino News upon its January 10 release, reveals a global reduction in suspicious matches, with Europe experiencing the most substantial improvement despite registering the highest number of what Sportsradar described as “suspicious matches” anew. According to the report, Europe logged 439 matches, which is 229 less than the previous year.  As stated in the report, "Asia and North America largely maintained the previous year's levels, with each region seeing a slight rise of eight matches." This stability at a high level in Asia is cause for concern. While soccer remains the most affected sport globally, with 721 suspicious matches detected, the geographical distribution of match-fixing is evolving.  "As in 2023, Asia was the most targeted region as it accounted for 50% of all suspicious matches," the report states, emphasizing the continued vulnerability of Asian sporting events. This figure, while a slight decrease from 53% in 2023, still highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions in the region. Sportradar's involvement in key events across the globe showcases their commitment to combating match-fixing. In Asia, they played a crucial role in safeguarding the AFC Asian Cup 2023. “Working alongside the AFC, we delivered a range of services including risk assessment, live monitoring, and intelligence support throughout the tournament,” the report highlights. This proactive approach is essential in mitigating the risks of match manipulation. Despite global efforts and successes in some regions, the situation in Asia remains a pressing issue. The report’s findings serve as a stark reminder of the continuous need for vigilance, robust monitoring systems, and collaborative efforts to tackle the complex problem of match-fixing in Asia. Sportradar's ongoing work with various sporting bodies and their commitment to developing their services offers a glimmer of hope in this ongoing battle for sports integrity. Read related article:   China, India Drive Rising Interest In Sports Betting: Study

Singapore has blocked 3,800 illegal gambling sites & $37M in transactions as of Dec 31, 2024. Singapore has blocked over 3,800 illegal gambling websites and approximately $37 million in related transactions as of December 31, 2024. Authorities are attempting to disrupt the flow of funds to these illegal operations and mitigating their economic impact. Online gambling is currently illegal in Singapore. The city-state currently has two land-based casinos within entertainment complexes such as Resorts World Sentosa and Marina Bay Sands.  Singapore’s Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) revealed these figures last January 8. These measures target websites frequented by Singaporean users and represent over 145,000 individual transactions. Home Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam acknowledged the limitations of website blocking, stating that operators can easily create new sites. This highlights the ongoing challenge of combating illegal online gambling and its drain on the legitimate economy. The blocked $37 million represents funds diverted from regulated industries and potential tax revenue. “These blocking measures have impeded access to illegal online gambling to some extent. However, this approach is clearly not foolproof as illegal operators can easily create new websites, and we do not have the ability to know of every gambling website,” Shanmugam said.  The MHA encourages public reporting of illegal gambling platforms and related financial accounts.  The Ministry of Home Affairs indicated that it currently has no plans to allow families to request the blocking of bank accounts used by problem gamblers. The Ministry expressed its belief that existing measures are adequate, citing a consistently low and stable rate of approximately one percent for pathological and problem gambling. Read related article: Singapore Gambling Declines, But Illegal Online Betting Rises

The Philippines is hunting 21,000 foreign POGO workers refusing deportation. Inspections of hotels, resorts, & apartments are also underway. The Philippine government is intensifying its efforts to locate an estimated 21,000 foreign workers from Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) who have refused to leave the country following the crackdown on the industry. This comes after approximately 20,000 foreign POGO workers have already self-deported, according to Bureau of Immigration data. In a recent interview on ANC’s Headstart, Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) head Gilbert Cruz revealed that local government units (LGUs) have reported sightings of Chinese nationals seeking accommodations in resorts, hotels, apartments, and even gated subdivisions, raising concerns about potential continued POGO operations. “They refuse to have themselves deported, and some are scattered throughout our country,” Cruz stated. He emphasized that LGUs have been contacting him with reports of Chinese nationals seeking various accommodations, potentially for business purposes. Cruz cited an instance in Northern Luzon where foreign nationals claimed they were establishing a call center. However, local authorities became suspicious when trucks carrying office and other equipment arrived even before a rental agreement was finalized, suggesting possible small-scale POGO operations. In response to these concerns, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) issued Memorandum Circular 2025 on January 2, 2025, which prohibits the proliferation of POGOs, including the non-renewal of their business licenses and permits. Cruz highlighted the challenge of monitoring these activities, noting that some POGO operations, ranging from 20 to hundreds of individuals occupying entire condo floors, operate without the knowledge of local officials. He stressed the importance of LGUs reporting any suspected small-scale POGO activities to the Philippine National Police (PNP) and DILG. To aid in identifying these operations, the PAOCC has provided tutorials to LGUs on recognizing signs of POGO activity, such as fully lit residences or floors and frequent food deliveries. Cruz also addressed the issue of Filipinos harboring these foreign workers. He clarified that since the downgrading of their working visas to tourist visas on October 15, any foreign national remaining in the country beyond their allowed stay is in violation of immigration laws, making them effectively criminals. Consequently, any Filipino found to be harboring these individuals will also face legal repercussions. The government’s intensified search and the active involvement of LGUs signal a determined effort to completely eradicate illegal POGO operations and ensure that foreign workers comply with immigration laws. The inspection of hotels, resorts, and apartments emphasizes the government's commitment to leaving no stone unturned in this operation. Meanwhile, government newswire Philippine News Agency reported that around 400 illegal aliens were arrested during a large-scale raid in an alleged POGO hub in Paranaque City.  “The order of the President (Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.) is clear. POGO workers who insist on staying in the country and violating our laws will be arrested and deported,” BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said.  Immigration authorities said this was part of their intensified campaign in hunting down POGO workers who remain in the Philippines.  Read related article: Senator Warns vs. POGOs Morphing As Other Businesses

There are 10 weeks until SPiCE South Asia 2025. Gain valuable iGaming insights & network with top decision-makers in Colombo. In only 10 weeks, Eventus International will host the highly anticipated SPiCE South Asia 2025 at the prestigious Shangri-La Colombo, Sri Lanka and ultimately pave the way for the next wave of progress in South Asia’s iGaming industry. Expect an impressive line-up of industry trailblazers, top decision-makers, and visionaries who are completely redefining the way we think about gaming. After the momentous SPiCE India & Sri Lanka Merger in 2024, 2025’s edition is sure to amplify cross-border opportunities, push boundaries, and drive the industry toward a bold new era. It’s no secret that South Asia is rapidly rising as a global force in gaming innovation, which means SPiCE South Asia 2025 is your chance to explore fresh perspectives, access invaluable industry expertise, and engage with thought leaders driving the sector forward. WHY YOU CAN’T AFFORD TO MISS OUT Network with industry leaders, regulators, and investors to explore innovations shaping the gaming landscape. Collaborate with peers, partners, and clients to unlock new business potential. Attend exclusive sessions led by thought leaders addressing current challenges and emerging trends. Stay up to date on regulatory developments essential to your success. Access the latest advancements and strategies to propel growth and capitalise on emerging opportunities. If you’re looking to build new partnerships, strengthen existing relationships, or gain actionable insights into the gaming sector, SPiCE South Asia 2025 is without a doubt a must-attend event. POSITION YOURSELF AHEAD OF THE CURVE Don’t miss out on this rare opportunity to step into the driver’s seat of industry evolution. Register today to ensure your spot at the event and take advantage of early sign-up benefits. For more information and to register, visit https://www.spiceseries.com/ssa   Read related article:   Wage Delays Affect 350 at Fontana Leisure Parks and Casino

Pitch ICE, Clarion Gaming's initiative for gaming startups, sees a huge surge in entries. Discover the next generation of gaming businesses. Pitch ICE, the progressive initiative which was introduced by Clarion Gaming over a decade ago to help nurture the development of start-ups and fledgling businesses in the gaming space, has received a huge increase in the number of entries. The 2025 edition of Pitch ICE, which will be the first to take place in Barcelona, has attracted 73 entries compared to the 27 received for London 2024. The Pitch ICE sessions taking place on Monday 20th January and Tuesday 21st January (11am - 12:30pm) will see 12 trailblazing start-ups present their business plans to a prestigious panel of judges and compete for the chance to win $50,000 (US) in deliverables courtesy of  Pitch ICE sponsor NYCE International. The short-listed enterprises are: EmpowerYourPlay; MFC Games; ChatBet; HotTakes; Betpass; SavageTech GmbH; Vulkan Systems S.L.; Reincleanchips AS; XGENIA; The Game Safety Institute; FootAR SA and AcePay. The judging panel is made-up of leading voices in gaming and venture capital, including: Kelly Kehn, Co-Founder, Defy the Odds Harmen Brenninkmeijer, Executive Chairman, NYCE International Ltd. Mona Motwani, CEO & Founder, Ixia Capital Adam Rosenberg, Senior Advisor, Gaming & Leisure, Blackstone Farzad Peyman, CEO, NYCE International & Partner, Virya Gaming Ventures Tom Waterhouse, CIO, WaterhouseVC Miquel Martí, CEO, Tech Barcelona Garron Whitesman, Owner, Whitesmans Attorneys Stuart Hunter Managing Director at Clarion Gaming is delighted that ICE remains at the forefront of gaming’s enterprise culture. He stated: “I am extremely proud that ICE has played an important role in bringing together the gaming ecosystem in such a way and being a facilitator of opportunity for companies which may be small in size but who are giants in terms of their creativity and potential.” He continued: “The fact that this is the largest number of entries that we have received reflects the spirit of innovation that drives this amazing industry. Our new home at Fira Gran Via Barcelona will be full with exhibiting companies that began with a brilliant idea and through a mixture of inspiration and hard work grew to be where they are today.  “Pitch ICE 2025 will showcase the brightest ideas which have the potential to shape the future of gaming. With the generous support of our sponsors NYCE International and the insight of a judging panel whose expertise you simply couldn’t buy,  I hope that we can collectively help turn those brilliant ideas into outstanding businesses.” ICE Barcelona will be home to the industry’s best ever line-up of exhibitors comprising the world’s biggest and most respected innovator brands from every gambling vertical.  The industry’s leading trade associations, strategic bodies, regulators, CEOs of tier-1 operators and games creators will all be at Barcelona in record-breaking numbers underlining the show’s reputation for being the ‘Davos of Gambling’. For more information on the world’s biggest gaming technology event and to register: https://www.icegaming.com Read related article: ICE Barcelona to Honor Gaming Innovators at Landmark Awards 2025

Slotegrator is expanding its Europe and Africa reach with Octopus Global, providing operators with advanced iGaming technologies and games. Leading B2B software supplier and aggregator Slotegrator partners with Octopus Global, an RGS provider known for delivering innovative, reliable, and flexible iGaming solutions. This collaboration is part of Slotegrator’s ongoing commitment to expanding its partner network and offering operators access to the most advanced technologies and diverse game content available in the iGaming industry.   Founded in 2022, Octopus Global has quickly gained a reputation as a trustworthy and forward-thinking iGaming provider. The UK-based company hosts games from renowned studios in the iGaming industry, each bringing unique themes, brands, mechanics, and features to the table. With all content developed in HTML5, Octopus Global ensures seamless compatibility across devices, giving players the freedom to enjoy games on desktops, tablets, and smartphones alike.   Beyond its impressive game portfolio, Octopus Global equips operators with a powerful suite of tools designed to enhance efficiency, maintain compliance, and elevate player experiences. Geo-targeting and blocking features make it easy for operators to manage regional accessibility, ensuring compliance with local regulations. Bonus and extra wager tools, including free games and bonus buys, help operators attract and retain players through engaging promotions tailored to their audience.  Operators also benefit from Octopus Global’s automated reconciliation and trace tools, which simplify troubleshooting and transaction tracking. The built-in integration suite optimizes game performance before launch, ensuring smooth operations. Additionally, Octopus Global prioritizes responsible gaming with features like reality checks, session profit and loss tracking, max win controls, and auto-complete, promoting transparency and player trust.   With this partnership, Slotegrator reinforces its position as a leader in the iGaming industry, providing operators with cutting-edge solutions and an extensive range of high-quality games. Octopus Global’s scalable and flexible RGS platform is an invaluable addition for operators looking to deliver exceptional gaming experiences and streamline their operations.   Octopus Global has commented on the partnership with Slotegrator: “It has been a pleasure collaborating with Slotegrator from the outset. They have consistently demonstrated professionalism and efficiency in both commercial and technical matters. We are eager to continue our partnership and further enhance the mutually beneficial relationship between our organizations.” Learn more about this exciting partnership and what Octopus Global has to offer by visiting Slotegrator’s website. Read related article: What Changed in the iGaming Industry in 2024?

Philippine senator Sherwin Gatchalian warns that offshore gaming operators are camouflaging illegal activities by morphing into BPOs, resorts, & restaurants. The Philippine government's ban on Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) was meant to end their detrimental impact. However, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian warns that the fight is far from over. POGOs are not disappearing; they are transforming, and camouflaging their illegal activities by morphing into seemingly legitimate businesses like BPOs, resorts, and restaurants. "More than ever, we need to sustain our efforts to clear out all criminal syndicates that are products of POGOs. We must stay the course to ensure a safer and more secure Philippines for all Filipinos," Gatchalian said in a statement issued late evening of January 7.  This transformation poses a serious challenge. What was once a readily identifiable industry is now blending into the legitimate business landscape. Gatchalian stresses the urgent need for heightened vigilance from law enforcement, local governments, and the public. These POGO offshoots present the same risks to public safety and order. The strategy is clear: by adopting the guise of legitimate businesses, former POGOs aim to continue operating undetected. This allows them to maintain their networks and potentially continue criminal activities under a seemingly innocent facade. A BPO, resort, or restaurant provides convenient cover, making detection and prosecution much harder. Adding to this concern is the presence of approximately 11,000 undocumented former POGO workers awaiting deportation. Gatchalian warns that these individuals, having evaded deportation, may resort to criminal activities like kidnapping, echoing previous incidents linked to POGOs. Their continued presence outside legal channels poses a significant security risk. This situation demands a multi-pronged approach. Beyond enforcing the POGO ban, authorities must actively investigate businesses suspected of harboring these disguised operations. This requires close coordination between law enforcement, immigration, and local governments. Public vigilance is equally crucial; citizens must be aware of this potential and report any suspicious activity. Gatchalian commended the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) for canceling fraudulently acquired birth certificates, a tactic used to create false identities. He urged the OSG to expedite these actions to prevent such deceptive practices. The transformation of POGOs into legitimate-looking businesses marks a new phase in combating organized crime. It highlights that banning an industry is not enough. Continuous vigilance, proactive investigations, and strong inter-agency cooperation are essential to dismantle these disguised operations and protect public safety.  "While we commend the OSG for their actions, we also urge them to expedite their efforts against these deceptive foreigners to better prevent their abusive activities in the country," Gatchalian said in Filipino. Read related article:   PH Office Leasing Market Expanded By 4% Despite POGO Ban

Thailand's government is eyeing to legalize online gambling, a few months after it submitted a proposal to legalize land-based casinos within entertainment complexes. Thailand's government will now start to discuss legalizing online gambling. This comes as Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy starts to explore more revenue options from entertainment and tourism.  Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong, who is also the Digital Economy and Society (DES) Minister, said on January 7 that they are expected to wrap up the measure in the next couple of months.  Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra previously said regulating online gambling would benefit the economy and society.  Prasert noted that online gambling platforms handle substantial sums of money daily, and appropriate taxation "would be good for the economy." Regarding the proposal to restrict online gambling access for those under 20, Prasert stated that this had not yet been discussed. Most forms of gambling are currently illegal in Thailand, with the exemption of state-run lottery and horse racing. This is part of Thailand's thrust to draw in more revenue through the gaming industry. They are currently pushing to legalize casinos nestled in Integrated Resorts, which they aim to approve by the end of 2025.   Secretary-General Prommin Lertsuridej indicated late last year that the government expects its draft bill on entertainment complexes to be enacted into law in 2025, potentially by mid-year, after passing through both houses of parliament. While this may be the case, studies remain skeptical of Thailand’s ability to regulate casinos and similar establishments. TGM Research’s “TGM Gambling & Sports Betting Report 2024” revealed “polarizing” public views on the industry, despite widespread underground gambling. TGM Research CEO Greg Laski noted the popularity of gambling in Thailand across demographics, acknowledging its current illegality and the divided opinions on legalization. He emphasized the opportunities in legalizing gambling but stressed the need to address existing challenges. Thailand last May pushed for a crackdown on illegal betting operations, in a preemptive move towards legalizing some forms of gambling. Just last January 5, Thailand police seized 121 cars linked to illegal online gambling rings. Read related article: Government To Choose Location of Thailand’s Casinos

Asia Commercial Bank denied allegations on TikTok that its chairman was linked to a major gambling scandal. An executive of Asia Commercial Bank, a major bank in Vietnam, were tagged by netizens in a major gambling scandal, with the bank vehemently denying the allegations. The bank ranked among the top ten most profitable banks in Vietnam. In a statement issued by the bank in Viet, as reported and translated by Vietnamnet, ACB strongly denied the allegations and emphasized that the baseless allegations damaged their dignity.  “These fabricated claims have caused significant harm to the image and credibility of ACB and its leadership,” the statement read in Viet.  In response to unsubstantiated social media rumors alleging an ACB executive's involvement in gambling and illicit money transfers, ACB has gathered all relevant evidence and reported the matter to the appropriate authorities for investigation and legal action. The bank reaffirms its commitment to transparency, safety, and accountability, protecting the rights and interests of its customers, shareholders, and partners. Vietnamese citizens are largely prohibited from participating in gambling activities, including both land-based casinos and online betting. The government views gambling as a social ill.There are a few exceptions where gambling is legal, such as state run lotteries, horse racing, greyhound racing, and select forms of football sports betting. Illegal gambling can result in significant fines and even imprisonment for those involved, including organizers and participants. Read related article: Vietnam's Corona Resort Suspends Local Gambling from January 1, 2025

Businesses will have to brace themselves as Cebu City prepares to inspect establishments for activities related to Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGO). Businesses will have to brace themselves as Cebu City plans to thoroughly inspect establishments for activities related to the now-illegal Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGO) industry. It can be recalled that the Philippine government set a deadline for cities, provinces, and municipalities to certify that they are “POGO-free.” Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia announced on January 6, 2025 that the city will conduct thorough inspections of all 40,000+ registered businesses, extending beyond the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) sector, which was previously the primary focus of POGO monitoring. This widespread scrutiny underscores the potential economic impact of the ban, as it requires significant resources for enforcement and could potentially affect legitimate businesses through increased regulatory oversight. “As of now, there are none, even if you review our BPLO records. This process has been ongoing since last year,” Garcia said in an interview with reporters. While initial findings indicate no active POGO operations in Cebu City, the city remains vigilant against POGO-like activities operating under the guise of legitimate businesses. This vigilance is crucial, as the economic impact of POGOs is multifaceted. While they initially contributed revenue through licensing fees and taxes, their association with criminal activities, such as money laundering and human trafficking, has created significant social and economic costs. The ban aims to mitigate these negative externalities. While Cebu City officially reported no active or legal POGO operators in 2024, there have been activities in nearby cities and provinces.  Last October 2024, authorities arrested around 40 undocumented Chinese nationals at a resort in Moalboal (a municipality in Cebu province), suspected of operating a POGO hub. This incident highlighted the potential for POGO operations to exist outside of Cebu City proper but still within the broader region. READ:   58-200 POGOs Still Operating; Illegal Hub Raided in Moalboal The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) earlier issued a directive to submit “No POGO Certificates,” -showing the economic ramifications of the POGO ban and the city's commitment to maintaining a transparent and regulated business environment. The DILG's mandate empowers local government units (LGUs) and local enforcement agencies to conduct these inspections, reflecting a nationwide effort to eliminate POGO operations. Cebu City's response involves convening a coordination meeting with key agencies, including the Cebu City Police Office, the National Bureau of Investigation, and the Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO), to strategize and execute the inspections effectively. Cebu City's proactive measures, including reviewing BPLO records and conducting on-site inspections since the President's announcement of the POGO ban in July 2024, demonstrate a commitment to compliance and transparency. The city’s efforts to issue a “No POGO Certificate” to the DILG based on these inspections reinforces this commitment. Cebu City aims to mitigate the negative economic consequences of the POGO ban while fostering a more sustainable and reputable business environment.  Read related article:   PH Office Leasing Market Expanded By 4% Despite POGO Ban

Police in Thailand have seized some 120 vehicles linked to an illegal online gambling network at Nonthaburi province.  Thai authorities have intensified their crackdown on illegal online gambling networks, seizing 121 vehicles linked to a major operation dismantled two years prior. This recent action, conducted by the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) on January 4th, targeted assets connected to the previously busted Macau888 online gambling website. Acting on warrants issued by the Nonthaburi provincial court, officers searched a residence and car showroom in Pak Kret district, Nonthaburi, uncovering over 120 vehicles, including a Lamborghini owned by a previously arrested online gambling suspect. Furthering their investigation, a separate team executed an arrest warrant at a Bangkok residence, detaining 32-year-old Jirayus Charoenpong on suspicion of money laundering. These actions are part of a larger, ongoing investigation into the Macau888 online gambling network, which was initially dismantled in 2023, as reported by the Bangkok Post. The 121 confiscated vehicles are now subject to examination by the Customs Department and the Anti-Money Laundering Office. This crackdown on online gambling coincides with another high-profile case involving the iCon Group, where police have seized assets worth over 160 million baht following fraud accusations. This case has drawn significant attention due to the involvement of well-known television host Kan Kantathavorn, who frequently showcased his affluent lifestyle on social media. Kan's social media presence, including his Instagram account and his wife Iyada “Ploy” Kantathavorn’s YouTube channel, often featured displays of luxury items such as high-end watches and cars. One particularly noteworthy instance involved Ploy revealing in a video that she ran air conditioning daily solely to preserve her designer handbags. Among the 23 luxury cars seized in the iCon Group case, two belong to Kan: a Ford Mustang Coupe, valued at approximately 2 to 3 million baht, and a Porsche Cayenne, worth around 7 million baht. Read related article: Landlords Warned Over Rentals To Now-Illegal POGOs