Global Sports Betting Landscape Shifts Amid Growth and Regulatory Efforts

The international sports betting industry is witnessing substantial transformation, fueled by evolving regulatory frameworks and surging market activity in emerging regions including Peru, South Korea, Brazil, and parts of Africa. These developments highlight a global push to expand legal markets while addressing the ethical and social implications of widespread betting.

In Peru, the gambling sector has seen a notable expansion, with a surge of 683 new sports betting licences granted since the start of 2025. This adds to a total of over 4,500 gambling permits issued nationwide. The Ministry of Foreign Trade & Tourism (MINCETUR) has taken a leading role in reshaping the industry, clamping down on unregulated operations. The agency has successfully shut down 15% of illegal gambling platforms, resulting in a 40% decrease in unauthorized activity. As part of a broader regulatory overhaul, the government plans to raise the betting tax from 0.3% to 1% beginning July 1st. This measure is intended to strengthen oversight and position Peru as a frontrunner in responsible gambling governance across Latin America.

Meanwhile, South Korea is grappling with a troubling surge in underage gambling, exacerbated by the rise of mobile betting applications and the influence of social media. Despite the country’s stringent legal environment—which includes the possibility of prison sentences for violators—minors continue to find avenues for access. Authorities acknowledge the limitations of enforcement without preventative outreach. “Enforcement alone is insufficient,” said representatives from Sports Toto Korea, who are intensifying educational campaigns and intervention efforts aimed at curbing youth involvement in gambling.

In Brazil, the sports betting market has developed unique consumer behaviors, with a dominant preference for micro-stakes. An overwhelming 94% of betting deposits are below R$100, or roughly US$20. The widespread use of the Pix Payment System has been critical to this trend, accounting for over 96% of all transactions in the betting sector. Data also reveals that 93% of funds are returned to players, emphasizing the market’s notably player-friendly structure and its appeal to casual bettors.

In East Africa, digital engagement in sports betting continues to climb rapidly. Leading companies like betPawa and Betika have emerged as dominant forces in the region, consistently topping Google Search trends in countries such as Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda. betPawa’s recent move to sponsor the Dar es Salaam Basketball League with a US$244,000 investment underscores the growing intersection of sports and gambling in the region. The involvement of betting firms in grassroots sports reflects both the economic potential and the societal reach of the industry.

These regional developments reflect the fluid nature of the global sports betting ecosystem, where governments and companies alike are navigating the fine balance between economic growth, regulatory rigor, and social responsibility. As the market continues to expand, the emphasis on ethical oversight and user protection will likely remain at the center of global industry discourse.

By fLEXI tEAM