iGaming on the rise? 5 countries that will become the new giants of online gambling

Global iGaming Breakdown: Who Leads, Who’s Emerging, and Which Markets Will Surge

Global Market Overview

The global online gambling market was valued at approximately $78.7 billion in 2024, with forecasts suggesting it will reach $153.6 billion by 2030. The global sports betting market has already surpassed $100 billion and is projected to double by 2032. This surge is driven by digitalization, mobile accessibility, and expanding legalization.

Leading Countries in 2024

United Kingdom

A mature and strictly regulated market, the UK maintains a turnover exceeding $15 billion annually across both casino and sports betting. Its Gambling Commission is one of the strictest in the world, ensuring consumer protection and responsible gaming.

United States

Since the repeal of PASPA in 2018, the U.S. has experienced rapid growth in the iGaming and sports betting sectors. The market is expected to exceed $100 billion by 2026, with tax revenues potentially surpassing $18 billion by 2030. Regulation varies by state but continues to expand rapidly.

Australia & New Zealand

Australia alone generates over $10 billion in gambling turnover annually, with one of the highest per capita spending rates globally. New Zealand adds another billion to the Oceania region’s combined total.

Europe

Europe remains the largest regulated market in the world. Combined revenues from major countries like France, Italy, Spain, Germany, and the Netherlands exceed $46 billion annually. Most countries have comprehensive regulation, including advertising controls, deposit limits, and player ID verification.

Fast-Growing Markets to Watch

Brazil

Brazil is one of the most explosive markets globally. By 2023, its online gambling revenue reached $3.4 billion, with monthly sports betting turnover hitting $5.1 billion in early 2025. The country is now fully regulated, and licensed operators dominate the growing market.

India

India is still partially regulated but has immense potential. With over 700 million mobile internet users, the market could rapidly scale if national-level regulation is adopted. Fantasy sports and skill-based games already thrive in many states.

Nigeria & South Africa

Africa’s iGaming market is growing quickly, with Nigeria and South Africa leading the charge. Nigeria, due to its large, mobile-first population, is becoming a hub for sports betting. South Africa’s regulated market generates over $2 billion annually.

Canada

Canada is gradually transitioning toward a fully regulated iGaming market. Ontario’s iGaming launch in 2022 was a major step, and more provinces are expected to follow.

Countries on the Verge of Regulation

• Canada: Provinces like British Columbia and Alberta are evaluating iGaming frameworks.
• Thailand: Government task forces are exploring legal casino and online gambling models.
• Philippines: Policy shifts are expected as the country balances between licensing and consumer protection.
• Kenya and Ghana: Both countries are introducing digital regulatory tools to monitor sports betting and mobile gambling platforms.

Top 5 Predicted iGaming Markets by 2030

1. United States – State-by-state expansion continues to accelerate.
2. India – Massive user base and digital infrastructure make it a sleeping giant.
3. Brazil – Clear regulations and cultural affinity for sports betting.
4. United Kingdom – Steady and mature, with high per capita spend.
5. China (including Macau/Hong Kong) – If regulations loosen, potential is immense.

Regulation vs. Growth

Countries that combine strong player protection with innovation are best positioned for long-term growth. The most successful iGaming ecosystems are those where regulation enhances transparency without stifling engagement. The challenge for emerging markets is to balance accessibility with safeguards against addiction, fraud, and illegal operators.

Conclusion: Mapping the Betting Boom

The global iGaming and sports betting industry is evolving at an unprecedented pace. While countries like the UK and U.S. continue to lead in scale, rapidly developing markets such as Brazil, India, and Nigeria are setting the stage for a dynamic shift in global rankings. Regulation will be the deciding factor that defines who leads and who lags in this high-stakes, high-growth industry.