Over the past 12 months, the Asia-Pacific region once again demonstrated remarkable resilience and transformation.
The Philippines achieved a record GGR of PHP410bn (US$7.16bn), marking a 24.6% year-on-year increase. The E-Games and E-Bingo sector alone experienced a 165% revenue growth, reaching PHP154.51bn (US$2.7bn).
Macau marked its second consecutive year of strong recovery following the Covid shutdown, with gross gaming revenue reaching MOP$226.8bn (US$28.3bn) in 2024 - a 23.9% year-on-year increase that surpassed government projections.
Elsewhere, all eyes are on Thailand where in January this year the Cabinet approved a draft bill to legalize casinos within large entertainment complexes, aiming to boost tourism and stimulate the economy. Some analysts already argue that the legal gaming market in Thailand could be bigger than Singapore.
And speaking of Singapore, the country approved amendments to its Casino Control Act, allowing cashless gambling in its two casinos.
Over in Australia, regulation continued to be the key topic in the industry with the country imposing a federal ban on gambling with funds from credit cards. Elsewhere, New South Wales published its Roadmap for Gaming Reform and Victoria introduced Australia’s strictest pokie machine rules, reducing the amount that can be put into machines from AU$1,000 (US$646) to AU$100 (US$64).
Finally, the New Zealand government announced plans to regulate online casino for the first time, with a licensing framework under development and due to be in place by 2026.
It’s a long list of industry highlights and you will certainly find many more in the following pages where we profile the best operators and suppliers from across APAC and tell you more about their achievements from the past 12 months.
Each year, the Global Gaming Awards Shortlist celebrates those who set new standards - whether through cutting-edge technology, outstanding customer experiences or CSR & ESG initiatives. Each company and individual are nominated for a reason which demonstrates passion and dedication to driving this industry forward.
Congratulations to everyone who has been shortlisted. Wishing you all the very best of luck and we look forward to celebrating your success at the Awards ceremony in the Philippines.
Mariya Savova, Event Manager, Global Gaming Awards
