Ghana brings crypto under regulation, opens door for betting payments
The development could help everyday bettors in places like Accra, where mobile betting is common, by offering quicker transfers and lower fees than traditional bank methods.
Ghana.- The Virtual Asset Service Providers Bill legalising cryptocurrency in Ghana was signed into law by President John Dramani Mahama on December 30 2025, following its approval by parliament on December 22. The measure allows individuals and businesses to buy, sell and hold cryptocurrencies legally for the first time, under oversight from the Bank of Ghana and the Securities and Exchange Commission.
The law sets up a licensing system for virtual asset service providers, such as exchanges and digital wallets. These entities must register with the central bank, follow anti-money laundering rules and implement know-your-customer checks to verify users. The Bank of Ghana will monitor operations to cut down on fraud and illegal flows, while also aiming to protect people from risks like volatile prices.
According to the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Johnson Asiama, “the framework will bring emerging crypto activity within accountable governance structures while supporting banks, small businesses and traders through clearer operating rules”.
Officials say the move addresses more than $3bn (€2.76bn) in informal crypto dealings that had gone unregulated, helping to build trust and draw in more users.
For the gambling industry, which falls under the separate Gaming Act of 2006 and the Gaming Commission of Ghana, the change means easier access to crypto for payments in sports betting and online games. Licensed operators can now integrate digital assets without fear of legal issues, as long as they use registered providers.
The development could help everyday bettors in places like Accra, where mobile betting is common, by offering quicker transfers and lower fees than traditional bank methods. However, all transactions must meet the new anti-money laundering standards, which apply equally to gambling and other sectors.
The VASP Bill doesn’t include specific restrictions on using crypto for betting, keeping it in line with Ghana’s existing support for regulated gaming as a source of jobs and tax revenue.
Experts predict that Ghana’s betting market, already valued at millions through licensed sites and apps, could get a boost from crypto. It will likely attract younger users who prefer digital options, similar to trends in neighbouring countries like Nigeria and Kenya.
