Creating an Enabling Environment for Gaming Operators: Reforming the Gambling Landscape in Angola
Ringote Paulo Jorge, the Director-General of the Instituto de Supervisão de Jogos (ISJ) in Angola, shared insights into the future of regulated gaming in the country. With Angola currently undergoing significant reforms in its gaming legislation, Jorge discussed efforts to create a more enabling environment for gaming operators that would reduce barriers to entry and encourage both local and foreign investment.
Jorge emphasized the transformative nature of the forthcoming legislative changes, stating, “We believe that in up to 3 months, [the new law] will be approved. So with the new law, everything will change. I used to say that law will be a game changer.” The anticipated legislation aims to rework the Angolan gambling law to facilitate not just online sports booking and casino operations, but also the long-anticipated land-based casinos and sports betting. This significant reform is designed to encourage greater participation from international gaming operators by easing restrictions and making the market more attractive.
Currently, foreign operators are allowed to own casinos and bookmaker licenses in Angola, provided they establish a local company. Jorge clarified, “They can create a local company, and with the local company, they can apply for a license” without the need for local partnerships. This flexibly structured ownership model allows foreign investors to participate more actively in the burgeoning Angolan gaming sector.
Taxation has also been a focal point of reform efforts. Jorge revealed that the tax rates on gaming operations, which were previously considered exorbitant, are being considerably reduced. The general tax on gross gaming revenue (GGR) for casinos has dropped from 45% to a more manageable 25%, while the tax for sports betting stands at 20% on GGR. Further alleviating the tax burden, wins below $200 are exempt from taxation, with taxes now only applied on amounts exceeding that threshold. “We are easing the burden tax on the winnings,” Jorge confirmed, acknowledging the need for a tax regime that supports growth while remaining fair to participants in the industry.
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However, the path to creating a robust gaming environment in Angola is not without challenges. Jorge noted that educational initiatives for the general public regarding gambling and its potential benefits remain critical. “The first one is, we need to educate the society about gambling. We know that gambling has a huge potential, but the society people, they have to know how to play,” he stated, lighting a spotlight on the importance of responsible gaming advocacy and player supervision. Additionally, addressing illegal gaming activities and improving regulatory efficiency are significant hurdles that the government is working diligently to overcome. Ringote Paulo Jorge Angola
Despite these challenges, the reformative measures taken by the Angolan government signify a pivotal moment in the country’s gaming landscape. By reducing barriers to entry, lowering tax rates, and fostering a more informed public, Angola is positioning itself as an attractive destination for gaming operators seeking new opportunities. Jorge’s optimism resonates throughout the industry, as he expresses hope that, “in 5 years, we can have the good levels of taxation in our country,” further solidifying Angola’s potential as a burgeoning gaming market in Africa.
As Angola continues to reform its gaming laws and create a more favorable operating environment, stakeholders in the gaming industry can look forward to a more substantial landscape filled with potential for growth and innovation. With the right balance of regulation, tax reform, and public education, Angola could well become a beacon for responsible gaming on the continent.
