Equatorial Guinea has officially entered the regulated online gambling market by launching a comprehensive licensing framework for digital gaming, betting, and casinos. The nation has awarded its first-ever Online Gaming Master License to Mascott Capital Partners, a Cyprus-based licensing and compliance management firm. This groundbreaking move marks a major milestone in the country’s digital economy.
Streamlined Licensing via Digital Platform
Mascott Capital Partners now serves as the central regulatory gateway. All international operators aiming to enter Equatorial Guinea’s market must obtain approval through a proprietary digital platform. The system streamlines application submissions, monitors operator compliance, and enforces licensing standards.
Strong Compliance and Consumer Protection Measures
The new framework introduces mandatory safeguards including age verification, anti-money laundering protocols, financial audits, and responsible gaming requirements. Operators must maintain financial reserves for player protection and conduct regular reviews of operational and risk standards. Key regulatory bodies are empowered to suspend or revoke licenses for non-compliance.
Building an Investor-Friendly Ecosystem
Officials view the initiative as a strategic economic diversification tool, designed to attract international investment and create new revenue streams beyond the country’s oil-dependent economy. The government positions Equatorial Guinea as an emerging iGaming hub, on par with jurisdictions like Curaçao and Anjouan.
Aligning with Pan-African Regulatory Trends
Equatorial Guinea joins a growing list of African countries, including Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, and Botswana, that have strengthened regulatory oversight across their online gaming sectors. With a modern, digitally driven licensing structure, the country aims to foster trust, increase transparency, and support industry growth.
Sources: Next.io, Focus Gaming News
