Mozambique Sets Course for Dedicated Online Gambling Regulation
Mozambique has taken a decisive step towards modernising its gambling laws after the Council of Ministers approved the Regulation on the Operation and Practice of Games of Chance or Fortune through Electronic or Computerised Means. The measure establishes the country’s first regulatory framework designed specifically for online gambling.
The approval represents the most significant development in Mozambique’s gambling sector since the adoption of the Gambling Law (Law No. 1/2010). Mozambique’s gambling industry has historically been regulated under Law No. 1/2010, together with Decree No. 64/2010, later amended by Decree No. 4/2017 and Decree No. 65/2022. While these instruments provide a comprehensive framework for casinos and other authorised gambling activities, they were primarily designed around physical gambling establishments and did not provide a dedicated structure for online gambling
A central feature of the reform is the introduction of a licensing regime dedicated to online gambling. Previously, Mozambique’s licensing system revolved around casino concessions intended for physical gambling establishments. Although the implementing requirements are yet to be published, the framework is expected to govern licensing, operational standards, compliance obligations, technical requirements and regulatory oversight for online gambling operators.
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The reform comes as Mozambique’s gambling market undergoes a noticeable shift towards online play. According to the 2025 Budget Execution Report, casino tax revenue totalled MT359.5 million, which represents just 54% of the amount projected for the reporting period and a 7.3% decline compared with the previous year. The Ministry of Finance attributed part of this shortfall to growing participation in online gambling, which has reduced activity at physical casinos.
The introduction of online gambling regulation does not alter Mozambique’s existing framework for land-based casinos. Casino concessions operating in Maputo, Matola, Beira, Tete, Nampula and Pemba remain governed by Law No. 1/2010 and its associated regulations. Existing concessionaires continue to be subject to capital and investment requirements, including minimum share capital of approximately US$2.7 million and minimum investment commitments of US$5.5 million during the first five years of operation.
Similarly, the current taxation regime remains unchanged. Casino operators continue to pay the Special Gambling Tax, calculated on gross gaming revenue at rates ranging from 20% to 35%, together with applicable stamp duty and other statutory obligations.
