DigiPlus Secures South Africa Licenses for Market Entry

DigiPlus Interactive Corp. has obtained regulatory approval to begin operations in South Africa, marking another step in the Philippine-listed company’s overseas growth plans. The latest authorization gives the group access to what it describes as the largest online gaming market in Africa and positions the country as its second international expansion target after Brazil.

The company said it received licenses from the Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board (WCGRB), the authority responsible for gambling oversight in the Western Cape province. The approvals cover three separate operating permissions: a national manufacturer license, a bookmaker license, and a bookmaker premises license.

These approvals allow DigiPlus to pursue a range of gaming activities in the market and establish a foothold in a province that plays a major role in South Africa’s digital gambling sector.

Western Cape Chosen as Strategic Entry Point

The Western Cape has emerged as a preferred jurisdiction for international operators due to its established licensing system and strong digital infrastructure. DigiPlus said the province accounted for about 31% of South Africa’s online gaming revenues in 2025, making it a logical starting point for expansion.

The province includes Cape Town, one of South Africa’s main commercial centers, and has become a focal point for licensed online gaming activity. DigiPlus highlighted transparent regulatory processes and digital readiness as key reasons behind its decision to enter through this market.

South Africa’s broader gaming industry generated an estimated US$4.9 billion in revenue during 2025, according to company disclosures. That figure underlines the commercial appeal of the country as operators seek expansion beyond domestic markets.

South Africa will become DigiPlus’ second international market following its earlier move into Brazil. The company entered Brazil last year, although it later paused operations of its gaming platform less than one month after launch.

As reported by Inquirer.net, DigiPlus has since said it aims to begin full commercial operations in Brazil during the first half of 2026. The company also noted that experience gained in Brazil is expected to support its South African rollout.

Earlier statements indicated DigiPlus is targeting a soft launch in South Africa by early 2027. The latest license approvals now move the company closer to that timetable.

Expanding Beyond the Philippine Market

DigiPlus is widely known in the Philippines through its consumer-facing brands BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone. BingoPlus has been described by the company as the country’s first government-approved online bingo platform. ArenaPlus focuses on sports betting, while GameZone offers casual and arcade-style gaming products. Another group unit operates slot arcades domestically.

The push overseas reflects a broader strategy to diversify revenue sources and build a larger presence in regulated international markets.

The company has also been active in other areas of investment. It is currently pursuing the acquisition of HKD1.60 billion (US$204.1 million) in convertible notes issued by International Entertainment Corp. If completed, the transaction would give DigiPlus control of the New Coast Hotel Manila, which is being redeveloped into an integrated resort.

While DigiPlus continues to expand, it has also reported softer recent earnings. In March, the company said fourth-quarter net income fell 36% year-on-year to PHP2.5 billion (US$41.9 million). Total revenue for the three months ended December 31 reached PHP17.3 billion, down 27% from the prior-year period.

Even with that decline, the company continues to pursue international opportunities and new regulated markets.