Mozambique steps up online gambling reform at GRAF 2026
Mozambique is stepping up gambling regulatory reform as GRAF 2026 puts player protection, compliance and the growth of online gambling at the centre of discussions.
Mozambique.- Mozambique is stepping up gambling regulatory reform, with the government outlining the sector’s future direction at the Gaming Regulators Africa Forum (GRAF 2026) as digital platforms and online gambling expand.
Speaking as GRAF 2026 got underway, Mozambique’s Secretary of State for the Treasury and Budget, Amílcar Tivane, set out the government’s vision for the sector. “Our vision is of a State that is not against economic activity, but that establishes clear rules, ensures fair competition, protects the citizen and ensures that the benefits of the activity contribute to national development,” Tivane said, according to Mocnoticias. GRAF 2026, which began in Maputo on September 14, drew to a close on September 17.
Tivane’s comments come after Mozambique approved a dedicated online gambling framework on July 14. The Council of Ministers approved the Regulation on the Operation and Practice of Games of Chance through Electronic or Computerised Means, creating a separate concession regime for online games of chance, distinct from the system governing land-based casinos.
The regulatory push also comes against weaker casino tax revenues. Mozambique collected MZN359.5m (US$4.8m) in casino taxes in 2025, just 54 per cent of the MZN666.1m (US$8.8m) budgeted for the year. The government linked the expansion of online gambling to declining casino tax revenues.
The government then moved towards implementation. In August, Economy Minister Basílio Muhate outlined priorities for the framework, including consumer protection, responsible gambling and regulatory modernisation. Tivane’s comments at GRAF 2026 come as the government continues that broader focus as digital gambling expands.
The government’s new regulatory framework aims to curb informality, ensure legal compliance and mitigate risks around data and player protection as digital platforms and online gambling expand, according to Repórter Nacional.
GRAF 2026 brought together regulators and other stakeholders from across Africa to exchange knowledge and strengthen cooperation between jurisdictions. The government highlighted gaming’s contribution to the national economy through employment, investment and state revenue.
On the first day of GRAF 2026, AI and technology featured prominently on the agenda, alongside player protection and responsible gambling. Sessions examined AI-driven risks, cybersecurity and how technology can support gambling regulation.
