SOFTSWISS to unpack true cost of African market entry in LinkedIn Live Panel

Industry experts will examine the costs, regulatory considerations and commercial factors operators need to assess before expanding into African markets, with South Africa as a practical case.

Press release.- SOFTSWISS will host a LinkedIn Live panel on September 24 at 14:00 CET titled “Not a Cheap Bet: The Economics of Launch in the African iGaming Market”. The session brings together the Mpumalanga Economic Regulator, operator Jabula Bets, consultancy Legends Gaming and Management Solutions, and SOFTSWISS to unpack the practical financial realities of market entry across the African continent, with South Africa as a practical case.

Africa represents significant growth potential for igaming operators, yet expansion economics vary substantially across jurisdictions. This panel addresses the critical questions operators face when evaluating African expansion:

• What does it actually cost to expand in an African market?
• Which African markets align with specific business models?
• How does the South African market compare to other African opportunities?
• Where should investment be prioritised for long-term viability?

SOFTSWISS has created a space where experts give clear insights on market expansion from multiple perspectives – including operator experience, consultancy strategy, regulatory compliance, and technology implementation.

Mariia Halaida, head of business development in Africa at SOFTSWISS, shares: “Operators see Africa as a growth opportunity, but the financial reality of entry requires careful planning. The continent isn’t a single market – each jurisdiction presents different costs, regulatory frameworks, and commercial dynamics. This panel provides operators with the intelligence they need to evaluate whether and where African expansion makes commercial sense for their business.” 

Vusi Mtsweni, CEO of the Mpumalanga Economic Regulator, says, “Entering any regulated market requires more than an assessment of its commercial potential. Businesses need to understand the regulatory environment, their compliance obligations and the broader responsibilities that come with operating in the market. From a regulatory perspective, we welcome informed and constructive conversations that help industry participants better understand these requirements. Ultimately, sustainable growth in the African igaming sector must be underpinned by regulatory compliance, responsible gambling, consumer protection and a commitment to operating with integrity.”

The panel is open to all igaming professionals with free registration. Industry players can submit Africa-related questions in advance, which the panellists will address during the live discussion.

Operators seeking a deeper market context can explore SOFTSWISS‘ igaming in South Africa report, which provides an analysis of market structure and regulatory requirements.