Online gambling now regulated in Equatorial Guinea, in partnership with Mascott Capital
Equatorial Guinea has taken a significant step in its digital transformation journey by establishing a regulatory framework for online gambling. This move marks the country's debut in the global iGaming market, with Mascott Capital Partners being appointed as the key regulatory body.
On July 1st, 2025, Antonio-Pedro Oliveira Burupu, Minister of Tourism and Tourism Infrastructure, issued the first Online Gaming Master Licence to Mascott Capital Partners. This Cyprus-based gaming management and licensing company will act as the main regulatory access point, managing licence applications, monitoring compliance, and supporting international gaming firms.
The regulatory framework imposes strict compliance obligations on operators. These include mandatory age checks, anti-money laundering (AML) measures, and regular financial and operational audits. However, the specific requirements for online gambling companies under Mascott Capital Partners remain undisclosed in public sources.
While online gambling is legal in Equatorial Guinea, crypto-related gambling activities remain prohibited. This means operators cannot offer crypto wagering services within the country. Companies seeking precise compliance obligations would likely need to consult directly with Mascott Capital Partners or relevant Equatoguinean regulatory authorities.
The licence issued to Mascott Capital Partners will be instrumental in managing the online gambling sector in Equatorial Guinea. The government emphasizes that applicants bear full responsibility for meeting these strict compliance requirements, with the aim of contributing to public services and creating new revenue streams.
This move is a key milestone in Equatorial Guinea's broader efforts to diversify the economy and drive digital transformation. The regulatory framework establishes clear operational standards for the online gambling industry, aligning with international standards and safeguarding consumer rights.
Mascott Capital Partners' digital platform will assist in submitting online gaming licence applications in Equatorial Guinea. The updated legislation in Equatorial Guinea aims to simplify tax procedures for online gaming and betting, making it easier for companies to enter the market.
The launch of online gambling, online betting, and online casinos in Equatorial Guinea is one of the most significant measures taken by gaming regulators in the country's history. As part of its broader digital transformation, the regulatory framework is expected to support the growth of the online gambling sector and attract international investment.
Sources:
- Overview of Gambling Regulations in Africa
- Equatorial Guinea Grants First Online Gaming Master Licence to Mascott Capital Partners
- The regulatory framework established by Equatorial Guinea for online gambling includes stringent finance-related compliance measures, such as anti-money laundering (AML) measures, regular financial audits, and age checks, to ensure a secure and fair online betting environment.
- Technology plays a crucial role in the new online gambling market in Equatorial Guinea, as the Mascott Capital Partners' digital platform facilitates the submission of online gaming licence applications, aligning with the country's efforts to drive digital transformation and attract international investment.