Mozambique Approves New Regulatory Framework for Online Gambling

Dedicated Framework for Online Gaming

Mozambique has approved a new legal framework specifically regulating online games of chance, creating a dedicated system for digital gambling operations. The measure was adopted by the Council of Ministers through the Regulation for the Operation and Practice of Games of Chance or Fortune via electronic and computer-based platforms.

Government spokesperson Inocêncio Impissa said the decree establishes the legal framework governing online gambling conducted through electronic platforms, computer systems and other remote digital channels.

Separate Licensing Model

Under the new regulation, online gambling will be treated as an independent gaming segment with its own licensing requirements. Operators offering digital gaming services will need separate concessions, distinct from those granted to traditional land-based casinos.

The move recognizes online gambling as a standalone activity requiring its own regulatory oversight.

Response to Falling Casino Tax Revenue

The regulatory reform comes as Mozambique faces declining tax income from its casino industry. According to the Ministry of Finance's 2025 budget execution report, casino tax collections reached 359.5 million meticais (€4.8 million), representing just 54% of the 666.1 million meticais projected for the year.

The figure also marked a 7.3% decline from the 387.7 million meticais collected in 2024. That year, the government had budgeted 1.235 billion meticais but collected only 34% of the expected amount.

The Ministry attributed the weaker performance largely to the growing popularity of online gambling, which has reduced customer traffic at physical casinos.

Existing Casino Market

Mozambique currently hosts casino and slot machine concessions in Maputo, Matola, Beira, Tete, Nampula and Pemba. According to government data, these projects represent approximately US$36 million in private investment.

The National Directorate of Games of Chance or Fortune requires casino concessionaires to maintain minimum share capital of approximately US$2.7 million and invest at least US$5.5 million during their first five years of operation.

Taxation and Concession Requirements

Casino operators remain subject to the Special Gambling Tax, which is calculated on gross gaming revenue and ranges from 20% to 35% depending on the length of the concession.

Concessionaires must also pay stamp duty equal to 50% of casino entrance ticket prices, while benefiting from exemptions on certain taxes related to gambling profits and import duties for equipment used exclusively in gaming operations.