iGaming trends 2025: SOFTSWISS' first half-year regulations recap

iGaming solutions provider SOFTSWISS released a fresh regulatory update as part of its iGaming Trends 2025 report. With regulation remaining one of the industry’s most pressing topics, the company highlights the latest developments from key markets worldwide.

The full recap is divided by countries, covering 24 jurisdictions in total. Below is a condensed selection of insights into the iGaming regulatory landscape by region – the complete breakdown is available for free in the full report.

Europe

• The UK rolled out stake limits for slots, deposit prompts, bonus restrictions, and a new statutory levy. Tighter oversight of suppliers and affordability checks is also underway.

• The Netherlands proposed universal spending limits, stricter ad rules, and gave regulators powers to block unlicensed operators.

• Germany approved a state monopoly model for online table games in Baden-Württemberg, applying a progressive tax.

• Curacao now shifts toward an EU-aligned, reputation-focused framework, operating under a revamped regime with on-site inspections, ad code updates, and mandatory compliance standards.

• Malta faces EU infringement proceedings over a legal shield that protects Malta-licensed online operators from foreign claims, which could be overturned.

Asia-Pacific

• The Philippines exited the offshore gaming model with a POGO ban and introduced domestic reforms, including a GGR tax cut and the launch of a verified list of licensed online operators

• India awaits a Supreme Court ruling on €11.5B in back taxes and is cracking down on illegal gambling ads.

Middle East

• UAE signals future digital expansion with iGaming-related hiring, although online licences are not yet issued.

Africa

• Nigeria restructured gambling taxes and banned Google gambling ads, shifting regulation to states.

• South Africa introduced a Remote Gambling Bill to establish a regulated online gambling framework, which is now pending approval.

South America

• Brazil is raising its gross gaming revenue (GGR) tax to 18%, expanding betting regulations, tightening oversight of advertising and payment systems, and introducing new restrictions on influencer marketing, including a ban on the use of celebrities and athletes in gambling promotions.

• Peru reduced its iGaming tax temporarily and expanded IP-blocking measures.

North America

• The USA (New York) moved to ban sweepstakes casinos and passed legislation targeting social gambling models.

SOFTSWISS continues to monitor the global regulatory environment to guide its partners through compliance shifts and regional opportunities.