Online poker operates in a legal gray area in Benin, as the country's gambling laws have not specifically addressed online gaming activities. The 2002 Gambling Act regulates land-based gambling including casino gaming and allows various forms of gambling, but it was enacted before widespread internet adoption and does not contain specific provisions for online poker or digital gaming platforms (1). While land-based poker is legal under the existing framework, online poker remains unregulated.
The Benin government has recognized the need for updated gambling regulation to address the digital gaming sector. Although online gambling is not currently regulated, there is growing government interest in developing comprehensive digital monitoring and control systems to better oversee this emerging market (2). The legal gambling age in Benin is set at 21 years old for all forms of gambling activities, including any poker games.
"Online gambling is not currently regulated in Benin, while land-based casino gaming and sports betting is legal but poorly regulated."
The current regulatory landscape leaves online poker in an ambiguous position where it is neither explicitly legal nor illegal. While the government has announced plans to develop better digital gambling controls, no comprehensive online gaming legislation has been implemented yet. Players seeking online poker options often access international platforms, though this carries regulatory uncertainty given the lack of specific legal frameworks governing online gaming activities in Benin.
Source:
https://www.igamingtoday.com/gambling-regulation-in-benin/
https://www.gamingintelligence.com/legal/regulations/170638-benin-aims-to-better-regulate-gambling-market/
Last updated: 27-09-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
