Mozambique Unveils Comprehensive Online Gambling Regulations: Key Compliance Shifts for Operators
Mozambique is set to implement a robust new regulatory framework for online casinos and betting games, with the comprehensive rules taking effect on November 20, 2026. This development, detailed in Decree No. 61/2026 of 21 September, clarifies previously undisclosed ownership, capital, payment, and data requirements, offering a clearer operational landscape for prospective entrants and existing players. The regulation mandates significant financial commitments, including initial guarantees of MZN25 million (approximately $391,216), alongside revenue-based contractual contributions and mandatory player-set gambling limits.
The published regulation addresses several ambiguities that arose following the initial framework approval in July. Prospective operators must now navigate specific financial and operational conditions. Key among these are minimum capital requirements of MZN100 million, or a higher amount determined by the supervising authority. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient liquidity for prizes, operations, and contingencies, alongside financial sustainability and compliance with tax and social security obligations.
Concessions will be exclusively available to public limited companies incorporated under Mozambican law. The framework distinguishes between concessions for online casinos and those for physical casinos, allowing for multiple concessionaires. Eligible entities include existing physical casino operators in Mozambique and licensed online betting and gaming operators that meet the new stringent requirements. A crucial ownership stipulation requires that where shareholders are legal persons, at least 26% of paid-up share capital must be held by Mozambican shareholders with registered offices in the country. This stake must be maintained throughout the concession period without prior authorisation for reduction.
Beyond capital, operators must provide initial guarantees totalling MZN25 million: MZN15 million to cover legal obligations, player balances, and potential fines, and MZN10 million to guarantee payment of the special online gambling tax. These can be in the form of bank deposits or autonomous bank guarantees. Furthermore, two distinct contractual contributions, each set at a minimum of 2.5% of annual gross revenue less winnings paid, will fund social responsibility initiatives and tourism development.
Licence applications, to be submitted in Portuguese, will undergo rigorous assessment by the General Inspectorate of Games (IGJ), including technical opinions and checks on suitability and financial capacity. Licences for existing physical casino operators may last up to three years, while others are limited to two years. The approved game categories include baccarat, blackjack, roulette, keno, and bingo, with additional categories requiring ministerial authorisation.
In terms of digital operations, authorised websites must use the .mz domain. All payments must be denominated exclusively in meticais, utilising electronic instruments authorised by the Bank of Mozambique. Funds must be transferred to player accounts via authorised Mozambican institutions, with player balances to be remitted within 48 hours. Crucially, all gambling-related data must be stored in Mozambique for at least ten years, with operators providing secure regulatory access and undergoing annual technical audits.
Player protection is significantly enhanced, with mandatory daily, weekly, and monthly deposit and betting limits required at registration. Reductions take effect immediately, while increases are subject to a 24-hour delay. Practices encouraging limit increases are prohibited, and under-18s are barred with automatic age verification. The regulation also empowers the IGJ to take action against unlicensed sites, instructing intermediaries to block access within 48 hours of notification.
