The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has moved a step closer to reforming its gambling sector after the National Assembly listed a gambling reform bill among 25 priority items for consideration during its extraordinary session, which commenced on June 26.
The session was convened by National Assembly President Aimé Boji Sangara under a decision issued on June 25, following a request from the government to fast-track the review of critical economic and security-related legislation. Among the proposed measures is a draft law addressing taxation, regulatory structures, and criminal provisions related to games of chance part of broader efforts to modernise the country’s gambling framework.
This extraordinary sitting follows the conclusion of Parliament’s regular March 2026 session on June 15.
In addition to the gambling bill, lawmakers are reviewing several other key proposals, including an amended Finance Law for the 2026 fiscal year, legislation on scientific research and capital markets, and bills tied to international financing agreements covering sectors such as infrastructure, energy, agriculture, and economic development.
The gambling reform bill forms part of a wider government initiative aimed at establishing a modern and comprehensive legal framework for the sector. If passed, the legislation is expected to strengthen tax structures, improve regulatory oversight, and enhance enforcement mechanisms, replacing outdated laws currently governing gambling activities.
Recent reforms highlight the government’s commitment to increasing transparency and boosting revenue generation within the sector. In May, the Ministry of Finance introduced plans for a centralised digital monitoring system designed to track licensed operators in real time. The platform is expected to improve tax collection, reinforce compliance, and curb illegal gambling activities.
First introduced to Parliament in 2025, the bill has been progressing steadily through the legislative process and is regarded as a key component of the country’s broader reform agenda. Its inclusion in the extraordinary session signals growing momentum toward establishing a more robust and transparent gambling regulatory environment in the DRC.
