The Asia Pacific region’s market for electronic gaming machines (EGMs) is poised for substantial growth, potentially increasing by 21% within the next few years, according to industry insights shared at the recent G2E Asia.
The event featured a panel titled EGM Trends: Navigating Growth, Innovation & Regulation in Asia’s Evolving Markets.
Lloyd Robson, VP of Sales & Operations for Asia at Aristocrat Gaming, highlighted the region’s dynamic expansion, saying: “This is a growing region. It is about 70,000 machines now. When you look ahead another three or four years, it will probably be more like 80,000 to 85,000.”
This optimistic forecast is bolstered by ongoing developments such as the MGM Osaka casino resort in Japan, set to open in 2030.
Despite strong competition, Aristocrat remains committed to innovation, with Robson adding: “We as an organisation generally commit to 10-12% of our top-line revenue back to R&D, to try to keep moving the industry forward.”
The panel also addressed challenges in the market, particularly in Macau. Ken Jolly from Light & Wonder highlighted the difficulties smaller manufacturers face due to the strict 12,000-machine cap, saying: “It is getting much harder in Macau for a smaller manufacturer to survive.”
Dallas Orchard from IGT observed a growing demand for new gaming machine products among Macau operators, suggesting an imbalance between supply and player expectations.
The impact of remote play on consumer preferences was also examined.
Jerry Chan of Okada Manila noted that while online slot play has not fully transitioned to the land-based sector, it remains a potential growth area.
