Maputo, Mozambique- Mozambique is moving ahead with the implementation of its first dedicated online gambling regulatory framework, with Economy Minister BasÃlio Muhate outlining how the new rules will modernise the country’s gaming sector while strengthening consumer protection, responsible gambling, and regulatory oversight.
The reforms follow the approval of the Regulation on the Operation and Practice of Games of Chance via Electronic or Computerised Media by the Council of Ministers on 14 July. The new legislation introduces Mozambique’s first standalone licensing regime for legal online gambling operators, providing a clear legal framework for remote gaming businesses.
Speaking to local media, Muhate said the government wants to ensure that the rapid growth of online gambling is matched by stronger safeguards for consumers, particularly young people.
“We urge the private sector to play its part in promoting responsible gambling. We have also observed that our society, particularly young people, has been feeling the effects,” the minister said.
He noted that betting-related content has become increasingly visible across social media, traditional media platforms and everyday public life, prompting authorities to introduce measures designed to minimise gambling-related harm while supporting sustainable industry growth.
Responsible Gambling at the Centre of Regulatory Reform
Muhate explained that the government’s priority is to balance the expansion of Mozambique’s regulated gambling market with effective consumer protection measures.
“These rules, these regulations we are introducing, are precisely designed to prevent and remedy these situations,” he said.
According to the minister, the reforms are also intended to modernise the country’s gambling regulatory framework and ensure effective implementation once the new licensing system becomes operational.
“What we aim to achieve with this new regulatory structure is, in effect, modernisation, and the next step is also the effective implementation of these instruments that Mozambique’s government is introducing to facilitate this transition,” Muhate added.
Industry Welcomes New Online Gambling Rules
The reforms have received support from the Mozambican Gambling and Betting Association, whose president Danilo Mussá described the regulations as a significant milestone for the country’s expanding online gaming industry.
He said the framework reflects the rapid evolution of the betting market and will help establish a more organised and transparent operating environment for licensed operators.
“The approval of these regulations is part of the dynamic development of online gambling and will help to consolidate the growth of this activity,” Mussá said.
Declining Casino Revenue Drives Reform
The government’s decision also comes after authorities linked falling casino tax revenue to the growing popularity of digital betting platforms.
According to Mozambique’s Ministry of Finance, casinos generated MZN359.5 million (US$5.6 million) in tax revenue during 2025 just 54 percent of the MZN666.1 million (US$10.4 million) projected for the year.
Officials believe the new online gambling framework will help modernise the sector, improve regulatory oversight, strengthen compliance, and ensure the government captures revenue from the country’s rapidly growing digital betting market.
With implementation now underway, Mozambique is positioning itself among the growing number of African countries introducing comprehensive online gambling regulations aimed at supporting industry growth while promoting responsible gaming, consumer protection and long-term regulatory sustainability.
