DigiPlus Interactive Corp, a Philippines-listed online gaming operator, has secured multiple online gaming licenses from the Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board, paving the way for its expansion into South Africa. The approval marks a significant milestone in the company’s international growth strategy as it targets what it describes as Africa’s largest online gaming market.
In a filing to the Philippine Stock Exchange, DigiPlus noted that South Africa generated approximately $4.9 billion in gaming revenue in 2025, highlighting the market’s strong commercial potential.
Three Licenses Approved by Western Cape Regulator
The Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board granted DigiPlus three key approvals: a national manufacturer license, a bookmaker license, and a bookmaker premises license.
The regulator oversees gaming operations in the Western Cape province, with Cape Town as its administrative hub. DigiPlus identified the region as the leading online gaming hub in South Africa, accounting for roughly 31% of national online gaming revenues.
The company pointed to the province’s transparent regulatory framework and strong digital infrastructure as key factors supporting its entry strategy.
Strategic Entry Into a High-Growth Market
DigiPlus initially submitted its license applications several months ago, with the latest approvals now clearing the path for operational rollout in the region. The company views South Africa as a strategically important growth market due to its scale, regulatory clarity, and digital readiness.
This expansion represents DigiPlus’ second major international move, following its earlier entry into Brazil, where it has since adjusted its operational timeline and plans to resume full commercial activity in the first half of 2026.
Portfolio Strength From Philippine Operations
DigiPlus currently operates several established platforms in the Philippines, including BingoPlus, the country’s first government-approved online bingo platform, ArenaPlus for sports betting, and GameZone for casual and arcade-style gaming. The company also manages a network of casino slot arcades nationwide.
This diversified domestic portfolio provides a foundation for its international expansion strategy, supporting adaptation across multiple gaming verticals and markets.
Financial Performance and Ongoing Expansion Strategy
Despite ongoing expansion efforts, DigiPlus reported a 36% decline in net income to PHP2.5 billion ($41.9 million) and a 27% drop in total revenue to PHP17.3 billion in its latest quarterly results. However, the company still declared a $64 million dividend for 2025.
Alongside its licensing progress in South Africa, DigiPlus is also pursuing a major acquisition involving HKD1.60 billion ($204.1 million) in convertible notes from International Entertainment Corp, which would give it control of the New Coast Hotel Manila as part of its integrated resort strategy.
Western Cape Positioned as Strategic Launchpad
DigiPlus highlighted the Western Cape as an attractive entry point due to its established investment environment, regulatory transparency, and strong digital infrastructure. The region’s readiness for online gaming operations makes it a key gateway for international operators entering South Africa.
With licenses now secured, DigiPlus is positioned to tailor its platforms for local audiences and accelerate its footprint in a rapidly growing regulated market.
Global Expansion Momentum Builds
With continued activity in Brazil and now formal entry into South Africa, DigiPlus is steadily expanding its international presence. The company’s dual-market strategy underscores its ambition to scale beyond its Philippine base while navigating diverse regulatory environments.
The Western Cape approvals mark a crucial step in that trajectory, strengthening DigiPlus’ position in emerging regulated gaming markets worldwide.
