Anjouan Introduces New Gambling License to Attract International Operators

The Anjouan Gambling License program has been recently launched by the government of Anjouan—an autonomous island within the Comoros archipelago—to establish the island as a new jurisdiction of choice for online gambling operators. In an era marked by explosive growth in digital gaming, Anjouan is crafting a legal and business environment that is both attractive and compliant, drawing interest from global casino, sportsbook, and fantasy gaming companies.

Why Anjouan Is Becoming a Gambling Destination in 2025

As the global online gambling sector surpasses $70 billion annually, emerging jurisdictions like Anjouan are competing to attract operators looking for:

Low licensing and operating fees
Straightforward regulatory processes
Competitive tax incentives
Strategic geographic positioning

By combining cost efficiency with a developing regulatory system that aligns with international standards, Anjouan offers a compelling alternative to legacy jurisdictions like Malta, Curacao, or Isle of Man.

Overview of Anjouan’s Regulatory Framework

The Anjouan government has crafted a comprehensive legal framework that emphasizes transparency, ethical standards, and international compliance:

Anti-Money Laundering (AML) – Adopts FATF-aligned measures, mandatory KYC, customer due diligence, and transaction reporting.
Responsible Gaming – Requires self-exclusion tools, deposit limits, and consumer protection policies.
Fairness and RNG Certification – Games must be independently audited; only licensed software vendors are permitted.
Ownership Transparency – Disclosures of beneficial owners, corporate structures, and financial statements are required.
Regulator Oversight – The Anjouan Gaming Commission (AGC) is empowered to oversee licensing, audits, and regulatory enforcement.

Types of Licenses Available in Anjouan

Anjouan offers multiple license types to accommodate diverse business models:

Operator License

For businesses offering real money wagering, including sports betting, virtual gaming, and online casinos.

Software Provider License

For B2B entities supplying gaming platforms, RNG services, or white-label solutions.

Payment Provider License

For PSPs offering payment processing, wallets, or virtual-currency integration to operators.

Affiliate and Marketing License

For third-party agencies promoting licensed gaming operations globally.

Benefits of Licensing in Anjouan

Competitive Cost Structure

Anjouan’s licensing fees are 30–50% lower than comparable jurisdictions, with significantly reduced renewal costs.

Tax Incentives

A favorable tax regime includes 0% corporate tax on gaming revenues and minimal withholding tax on profits and dividends.

Regulatory Flexibility

Anjouan’s regulator has created a fast-track license process, with approvals typically issued within 8–12 weeks.

Economic Development Focus

Operators can benefit from government incentives tied to local investment, employment, and infrastructure.

Application Process for the Anjouan Gambling License

The process is transparent and designed for speed:

Preliminary Consultation – Operators engage with licensed local agents or legal advisors to assess licensing needs.
Company Incorporation – Applicants must establish a legal entity in Anjouan or Comoros, including local representation.
Documentation Submission – Includes business plans, compliance manuals, AML/KYC policies, and background checks.
Technical Testing – Gaming software must be validated for RNG fairness and security.
Regulatory Review – The AGC reviews applications and may conduct interviews or inspections.
Issuance of License – Upon approval, licenses are granted with defined terms and renewal cycles.
Ongoing Compliance – Includes quarterly reporting, AML audits, and system checks.

Financial and Timing Details

Typical Timeline

Initial setup & application: 4–6 weeks
Technical review & approval: 4–6 weeks
Total time to launch: 8–12 weeks

Estimated Costs

Cost Category	Estimate (USD)
Application fee	$7,500 – $12,000
Annual license fee	$15,000 – $25,000
Software/RNG certification	$3,000 – $8,000
Legal and local agent fees	$5,000 – $15,000
Payment provider setup	$2,000 – $6,000

These costs are significantly lower than established licenses in Malta, UK, or Alderney.

Compliance Obligations Post-Licensing

Licensed operators must adhere to:

Player fund segregation – Ensures protection of client money.
Quarterly AML/financial audits – Review of financial systems and suspicious activity.
Responsible gaming enforcement – Self-exclusion and fairness protocols.
RNG and cybersecurity renewals – Annual retesting of game platforms.
Ownership updates – Full disclosure of any changes in control or structure.

Challenges and Considerations for Operators

Geographic Recognition

Anjouan is not yet globally recognized like Malta or UKGC. Operators may need additional licenses (e.g., MGA, UKGC) to access regulated markets.

Infrastructure Development

Internet and digital infrastructure in Comoros is improving but may require investment in local hosting and connectivity solutions.

Reputation Building

As a new jurisdiction, Anjouan license holders must actively promote trust and transparency to establish credibility.

Despite these challenges, Anjouan remains a cost-effective and flexible option for many global operators.

Economic and Social Impact for Anjouan

The gambling license initiative aligns with long-term economic goals:

Job creation in compliance, tech, and customer support.
Investment inflows from international operators boosting infrastructure and local services.
Regulatory capacity development, enabling future expansions to fintech, payments, or blockchain licensing.

The government sees the gambling sector as a starting point for broader digital economic growth.

Comparisons with Other Emerging Jurisdictions

Curacao

Similar in cost and flexibility, but Anjouan offers stronger AML standards and more transparent ownership rules.

Panama / Costa Rica

Lower government oversight in Panama; Anjouan positions itself as more reputable through regulatory rigor.

Malta / Isle of Man

These offer superior regulatory prestige but come with long approval timelines and higher fees. Anjouan is faster and more affordable.

Conclusion: Is an Anjouan License Right for You?

For iGaming startups, crypto casino operators, and regional sportsbook platforms, Anjouan offers a unique opportunity—combining regulatory innovation, cost efficiency, and economic promise. If you are looking to launch quickly, operate compliantly, and invest in a market with untapped potential, the Anjouan Gambling License is worth serious consideration.