Over the past decade, esports has quickly grown from an isolated online game to a multibillion-dollar industry. While this relatively recent practice connects millions of users globally, North America, Europe, East Asia and the Middle East have historically dominated the competitive gaming landscape.
In 2024, the global esports market was valued at approximately $2.09 billion, with projections estimating it will exceed $2.2 billion in 2025, and around $9.6 billion in 2032. This rapid expansion is not only taking place in traditional markets but is also being fueled by emerging regions like Africa and Latin America, where the sport is gaining significant traction in both participation and viewership.
Quick Highlights
- Global brands like Red Bull and Nike are investing in Latin America and Africa’s esports scenes like never before.
- Latin America’s esports audience is projected to exceed 70 million by 2022.
- Improved Internet Infrastructure in Brazil has enabled greater access to participation, with fiber-optic internet reaching 67% of households in 2023.
- The expansion of high-speed internet access through Kenya’s National Optic Fibre Backbone Infrastructure (NOFBI) has boosted participation nationwide.
- Increased investments by governments and private groups in Latin America and Africa are driving important growth to the market.
- The global connectivity is driven through streaming platforms and advanced technology.
Latin America’s Growing Esports Market
Latin America, with countries like Argentina, Brazil, and Mexico leading the way, has quickly become a major hub for esports. Just a decade ago, the region faced several challenges— few local events, limited professional teams, and underdeveloped infrastructure. But that’s changing fast as governments, international companies, and esports organizations recognize the area’s potential.
The growth is being driven by the rise of mobile gaming and new partnerships with global brands like Mastercard and Coca-Cola. International streamers like Skyrozz, who now lives in Mexico, are also helping bring attention to the region’s growing scene.
According to a Newzoo report, Latin America is now the fastest-growing esports audience globally, with over 60 million fans expected by 2025. Games like PUBG, Call of Duty Mobile, and Brawl Stars, designed for lower-end devices, are making mobile esports highly accessible, drawing millions of viewers to tournaments.
In the past two years, the region has seen a surge in partnerships, strengthening its position on the global stage. Notable collaborations include KRÜ Esports with Samsung Electronics and Mobile Global Esports with INFINITY.
Africa’s Market Potential: Overcoming Challenges to Reach New Heights
Although esports is still emerging in Africa, it holds significant growth potential, largely due to its young population. With 50% of Sub-Saharan Africa’s population under 25 and growing access to affordable mobile and gaming devices, the region is primed for rapid expansion. The GSMA Mobile Economy Report 2023 projects that 70% of the population will be using smartphones by 2025, further boosting esports’ potential.
The rise of local and international tournaments, such as the Carry1st Africa Cup and regional events backed by the African Esports Federation (AESF), is helping create opportunities for African players to showcase their talents on the global stage. However, significant obstacles remain, including limited internet access and the high cost of equipment in many countries.
Additionally, the lack of well-known African esports players or influencers hinders growth. Without prominent figures to drive branding and storytelling, it’s challenging to build fanbases or generate media attention. Overcoming these challenges will require substantial investment in infrastructure and the development of local talent.
The Middle East Leads the Way for Emerging Regions
Middle Eastern countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia have rapidly become major players in the esports world. Initially limited by lack of infrastructure and competitive gaming culture, these nations have recognized the sport as a key strategy for economic diversification and youth engagement. Initiatives like the Saudi Esports Federation and the NEOM project have helped build the necessary foundation.
Saudi Arabia, in particular, has hosted major tournaments such as ESL One and the Esports World Cup (formerly Gamers8), positioning itself as a global hub. Dubai has also made its mark, hosting events like the Dubai Esports and Games Festival, attracting international tournaments like Fortnite and League of Legends.
While the budgets and goals of regions like Latin America and Africa differ, the Middle East’s vision and commitment serve as a model. Saudi Arabia’s National Gaming and Esports Strategy, aiming to create 39,000 jobs and add $13.3 billion to the GDP by 2030, highlights the economic potential of the gaming industry. The country’s 12-year partnership to host the Esports Olympics underscores the value placed on youth engagement and economic growth through online gaming.
Towards a More Inclusive Esports World
Esports is set to continue its rapid global expansion, with regions like Latin America and Africa emerging as key players in the digital economy. As more countries engage in these regions, grassroots programs, local tournaments, and investments in infrastructure will be essential for building a strong foundation for future growth.
Esports stands out for its diverse, inclusive community, and as the industry grows, we hope to see even more countries and communities from around the world contributing to the gaming experience, making it richer and more dynamic for everyone.