iGaming Conference SPiCE International 2026 to Focus on Legitimacy in Cambodia

The third annual SPiCE International conference will turn its attention to Phnom Penh, Cambodia, in November 2026. This event brings together key players in the iGaming industry and marks a turning point for the Cambodian gaming sector. Sustainability, legitimacy, and investor confidence are at the forefront of discussions.

Eventus International, the organizer, promises a platform for intensive dialogue and exchange. The focus is not just on current opportunities, but on building a credible and transparent market for the future. The conference dates are November 5 and 6, 2026.

Numbers and facts

According to `spiceseries.com`, the expected attendees are distributed as follows: 35 percent operators, 25 percent suppliers, 20 percent affiliates, 10 percent payment providers, and 10 percent regulators. Over 90 percent of attendees are expected to be decision-makers, traveling from more than four continents. This demonstrates the global relevance of the conference and the importance of the discussions held there. The conference, taking place from November 5 to 6, 2026, aims to bring together key stakeholders.

Topics to be discussed include regulatory strengthening, compliance, governance, market entry strategies, investment opportunities, and the use of technology and innovation. Best operational practices and the importance of trusted partnerships in creating a resilient sector will also be addressed.

Tim Shepherd from Fortuna Investments emphasizes the shifted perspective on the Cambodian gaming market. He sees a move away from mere access to opportunities towards building a sustainable and credible system.

“The conversation around Cambodia's gaming sector has shifted considerably. It is no longer simply about access to opportunity but about building something sustainable and credible for the long term. SPiCE International 2026 brings together the stakeholders best placed to do exactly that, and Phnom Penh in November is where we intend to be.” - Tim Shepherd, Fortuna Investments

This view is echoed by Tim Nguyen of Fortuna Investments and Danny Too of MediaPro, who both underscore the significance of this moment for the industry in Cambodia.

Background

Cambodia is undergoing a period of increased regulatory scrutiny. The country seeks to reposition its gambling sector. The overarching goal is to offer investors a safe and reliable environment based on transparency. The conference, with its focus on “legitimacy” and “sustainability,” is an important step in this direction. A more regulated market is more attractive for long-term investors.

The iGaming industry is in a state of global flux. Many countries are striving for clearer and stricter regulations. Cambodia appears to be actively shaping this development rather than just reacting to it. The discussions at SPiCE International 2026, according to the organizers, are intended to support and advance these ambitions.

Why it matters for German players

For German players, developments in distant Cambodia have no direct impact. The gambling market in Germany is comprehensively regulated by the Gambling State Treaty 2021 (GlüStV 2021). The Joint Gambling Authority of the Federal States (GGL) enforces strict rules for online casinos. These include a deposit limit of 1,000 euros per month and a stake limit of 1 euro per spin for online slots. The central self-exclusion system OASIS and the cross-state gambling supervision system LUGAS also serve player protection and market monitoring.

German players should only play at online casinos that hold a German license from the GGL. These casinos, listed on the GGL whitelist, adhere to the strict requirements of GlüStV 2021. Providers without a German license, such as those from Malta or Curacao, often do not offer the same level of player protection. There is no legal basis for German players here. However, Cambodia's efforts to legitimize its market show a global trend towards more regulation in the gambling sector. This trend can indirectly influence the standards of providers without a German license, but without guaranteeing them.

What it means for GGL-licensed casinos

The conference in Cambodia has no immediate impact on GGL-licensed casinos in Germany. These operators must continue to adhere to the requirements of the GlüStV 2021. German regulations are often significantly stricter and more focused on player protection compared to Asian markets. However, observing international developments can offer GGL casinos new perspectives on global best practices. After all, topics such as “Operational Best Practice,” which are of interest to operators worldwide, are also to be discussed at SPiCE International.