Philippine gaming operators active in Sri Lanka, new report confirms

An investigation has added to previous reports suggesting operators have relocated to Colombo’s Port City Special Economic Zone.

Sri Lanka.- Another report has backed suggestions that former Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) and their workers are moving to Sri Lanka following the Philippines’ ban on the sector. An investigation by MonetaBrief published by local news outlet The Island says thousands of workers from China, the Philippines, Vietnam and Cambodia have moved to Sri Lanka, while some former POGO-linked operators have established activities in Colombo’s Port City or through local business process outsourcing (BPO) companies.

Recruitment campaigns reportedly offer salaries of between US$1,200 and US$2,000 per month for positions including marketing, customer service, SEO and administration, alongside accommodation and other benefits.The investigation suggested the operators are targeting Vietnam.

The development comes as Sri Lanka prepares to implement its new gambling regulatory framework. Deputy Minister for Digital Economy Eranga Weeraratne said the planned rules will apply across the country, including Port City. Sri Lankan authorities have stepped up enforcement against operations linked to online gaming and cybercrime, with more than 1,000 foreign nationals already arrested in raids during 2026.