Mozambique has introduced a new legal framework specifically for online gambling, establishing a separate concession system for games of chance available via electronic and digital platforms. The Council of Ministers approved the Regulation on the Operation and Practice of Games of Chance or Fortune through Electronic or Computerized Means in mid-July, distinguishing these online activities from the regulations that currently govern the country’s physical casinos.
The move comes amid a notable decline in tax revenue from land-based casinos. Official data reveals that Mozambique’s casino gaming tax revenues dropped to MZN359.5 million ($5.6 million) in 2025, significantly lower than the budgeted MZN666.1 million, achieving only 54% of the government's target. This amount represented a 7.3% decrease from the MZN387.7 million collected in 2024, where the government aimed to collect MZN1.235 billion.
Authorities have cited the rise of online gambling as a contributing factor to the decreased patronage of physical casinos. Economy Minister Basílio Muhate emphasized a focus on enforcement and transparency following the approval of the new regulation, indicating a commitment to combat illegal gambling. "We continue to defend the fight against illegal gambling," he stated after a meeting with the Mozambican Association of Online Games and Betting. He asserted that stronger oversight is essential, underlining the role of the General Inspectorate of Games (IGJ) in this effort.
Muhate also highlighted the responsibility of gaming operators to mitigate the social impacts of irresponsible gambling, particularly among youth. Economist Júlio Saramala commented on the situation, suggesting that the IGJ should make its inspection criteria and reports public. He cautioned against the allure of gambling for young people amid high unemployment and easy access to cash.
Danilo Mussá, president of the Mozambican Association of Online Games and Betting, noted that the new regulatory framework empowers the government to better address foreign online betting platforms that target local consumers without contributing tax revenue to the country. “This approval is important because it gives us a legal instrument to combat foreign betting sites,” Mussá explained, emphasizing the potential losses to the Mozambican state due to unregulated gambling.
As the association pursues efforts to block offshore sites, questions remain regarding the specific licensing details under this new framework. At present, the costs associated with online-gambling concessions, applicable tax rates, capital requirements, and the licensing process have not been publicly clarified by the government or the IGJ. The absence of available guidelines leaves potential operators without a clear path to market.
Without firm timelines or published procedures, the practical implications of the new online-gambling regulations will hinge largely on how effectively the government and IGJ implement a licensing and enforcement strategy. The framework sets forth the legal foundation for a dedicated online gambling market, but its operational success is yet to be determined.
