Southeast Asia and the Online Gaming Industry
April 15, 2020 5:12 am
Online gaming has become a significant part of most economies. The industry keeps on raking in sums in millions, and there are no signs of slowing down. South Asia looking to take advantage of this growing economy have put up initiatives to encourage online gaming. Let us take a detailed look at how some of the countries here are implementing policies to encourage this industry.
The online gaming industry by countries
In Cambodia, online gaming and gambling are closely related activities. However, the South East Asian country has released mobile online gaming apps to cater to its citizens. These apps are designed to adhere to the special laws of the country. This industry debuted in the country only a few years ago, precisely, in 2015 but has now gained popularity among adults. Its popularity amongst that demography has quickly erased the gambling reputation usually associated with it in previous generations.
Indonesia is no small country when it comes to video gaming. Indeed, they have the 16th largest industry in the world. The country is widely known for its competitive online gaming, and computer-based tournaments have been hosted there since as far back as 2002. Mobile gaming is also gaining traction in the country and is encouraged by fast internet connections. The government also takes conscious actions and implement policies such as the Creative Economy agency to improve the industry.
Myanmar is cited by the World Bank to be one of the fastest-growing economies in South Asia. This makes it an interesting market for the online gaming industry. Though the poverty rate across the country is still very high, mobile and computer-based games have made online gaming popular. Tournaments like Multiplayer Online and MMO are held across different levels and encourages online gaming among locals in general.
The gaming industry in the Philippines is arguably the most organized in all of South East Asia. The industry is regulated by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). The industry regulated by PAGCOR has paid off since its acceptance across all levels, grossing over $3billion in 2017 alone. There are now a lot of regulatory bodies put up by the government to make the industry more organized.
Written By: Roland Arum
