Sri Lanka seems to be the new hub for Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) workers, following the recent crackdowns in the Philippines. However, the association of POGOs with illicit activities has prompted concerns about this move.
POGO Workers Migrate to Sri Lanka
According to reports, multiple POGO workers, including Cambodian, Chinese, Philippine, and Vietnamese nationals, are moving to Sri Lanka, choosing Colombo Port City as a new hub. This comes in response to Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s decision to outlaw POGOs in 2024.
For context, the POGO crackdown followed regulatory issues and some operators’ association with crime. This caused POGOs to be ultimately banned under the Anti-POGO Act of 2025. This act allowed the government to appropriate property and assets tied to illegal POGO operations.
Since then, the PAGCOR has introduced stricter gaming laws to prevent things from getting out of control again.
Sri Lankan Authorities Should Be Vigilant
As a result of the POGO worker migration, Sri Lanka could now face similar risks. Colombo Port City, in particular, is a key foreign investment hub that is perfect for further gaming operations. However, it is still unknown whether former POGO operators will play by the rules or cause further trouble.
In any case, Sri Lanka is working hard to bar unlicensed operators from targeting local players. To that end, authorities recently cracked down on illegal operations, blocking over a hundred illegal platforms.
Sri Lanka recently created a new regulatory body (Gambling Regulatory Authority/GRA) that will watch over the gaming sector. This authority will, among other things, watch out for potential POGO-related trouble to determine whether further action is needed.
Earlier this year, Sri Lanka raised its casino taxes, as well as the fee patrons and customers ought to pay to access gambling facilities. The measure came into effect on January 1 and raised the gross collection levy for casinos to 18%. At the same time, the aforementioned casino entrance fee was doubled to $100.