Afrika: Report Warns of Billions Lost to Illegal Gambling
Africa.– 28 August 2025 – www.zonadeazar.com The iGaming industry faces a growing challenge: the black market continues to generate staggering revenues, undermining tax collection and threatening the sustainability of regulated operators across Africa and beyond. A report released on 28 August 2025 highlights the scale of the issue and outlines potential responses for governments and companies.
Scope of the unregulated market
The report estimates that illegal gambling revenues reach billions of dollars annually worldwide. In Africa, the lack of robust regulatory frameworks in certain countries allows unlicensed platforms to flourish. This not only drains tax revenues but also exposes players to fraud, lack of transparency, and absence of responsible gambling safeguards.
Drivers of illegal gambling
- Uncontrolled digital access: offshore operators exploit legal loopholes.
- Attractive odds: players are drawn to higher returns without weighing risks.
- Consumer education gap: lack of awareness about the benefits of licensed platforms.
Impact on licensed operators
The black market directly undermines licensed operators, who must meet tax obligations, invest in security technology, and guarantee betting integrity. The unequal playing field squeezes margins and restricts investment in innovation.
Regulatory responses in Africa
Several countries have begun strengthening regulatory oversight through dedicated gaming authorities, implementing tech-driven controls and awareness campaigns. Yet the challenge remains regional: without cross-border cooperation, illegal operators will continue to exploit weak spots.
Opportunity for the B2B sector
The fight against illegal gambling creates opportunities for B2B providers in compliance, monitoring, and technology. Transaction tracking, suspicious activity detection, and consumer education are key areas where the private sector can support governments.
Conclusion:
The report is a wake-up call for Africa: sustainable iGaming requires clear regulations, regional cooperation, and technological adoption. Tackling the black market is essential to protect players, secure fiscal revenues, and build a competitive ecosystem.
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