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Isle of Man’s gambling sector shrinks as Asia-facing operators retreat under scrutiny

A crackdown on crime and tighter rules reshape the island’s egaming landscape. Why are Asia’s operators walking away—and what’s next for jobs and growth?

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1 min read
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Isle of Man’s gambling sector shrinks as Asia-facing operators retreat under scrutiny

The Isle of Man’s gambling sector has faced growing challenges in the past 18 months. Pressure from international scrutiny and financial crime risks has reshaped the industry, with fewer licences issued and more surrendered. Regulators are now tightening controls while trying to encourage responsible growth.

Between 2023 and June 2025, the Gambling Supervision Commission (GSC) accepted 18 new licences but saw 31 surrendered—seven of them from Asia-facing operators. This trend continued in the following year, with only three licences approved since mid-2025, none linked to Asian markets. At the same time, 10 more licences were given up, including another from an Asia-facing company.

The decline in licences has hit employment hard, with a sharp drop in jobs across the egaming sector. Industry observers point to global crime syndicates infiltrating parts of Asia as a key reason for the reduced interest from that region. In early 2026, the GSC attended ICE Barcelona, Europe’s largest gaming expo, signalling its commitment to staying engaged with the industry. The regulator has also outlined a stricter stance for the year ahead, promising stronger measures against financial crime while still supporting innovation and investment. Security remains a top concern. In 2025, the GSC prioritised tackling new threats to the island’s regulatory integrity. Plans for 2026 include publishing a National Risk Appetite Statement, followed by a full National Risk Assessment to guide future policies.

The island’s gambling regulator now faces the task of balancing tighter security with sustainable growth. Fewer licences, stricter checks, and a shrinking workforce reflect the current challenges. The GSC’s upcoming risk assessments will likely shape how the sector adapts in the years ahead.

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