Online poker is legal in Mozambique under the country's gambling framework established through amendments to the 1994 gambling legislation. In 2009, President Armando Guebuza signed a law that legalized online betting for the first time, opening new opportunities for Mozambique's gaming industry (1). However, there is currently no specific licensing system in place for online operators, meaning poker platforms function under the general legal framework without dedicated regulatory oversight.
Land-based poker can be played in licensed casinos throughout Mozambique, with regulations significantly reformed to promote tourism development. The 2009 amendments reduced the minimum capital investment required for casinos from $15 million to $8 million, making market entry more accessible for operators (1). The Ministry of Tourism oversees primary casino regulation, while the Ministry of Finance retains authority over tax collection and inspection activities.
"The Mozambican government yesterday approved the regulation of the gambling law, as a way of stimulating tourism in the country. In addition to increasing the number of licenses for gambling houses, the regulation reduces the distance required between casinos from the previous five kilometers to 100 meters."
Mozambique's gambling regulatory framework is administered by the General Gaming Inspection (Inspecção Geral de Jogos), which operates under government authority. The regulations classify cities into categories A, B, or C, with varying maximum numbers of casino licenses permitted in each classification (2). Players must be at least 18 years old to participate in gambling activities, and operators are required to comply with anti-money laundering regulations throughout their operations.
Source:
https://www.igamingtoday.com/gambling-regulation-in-mozambique/
https://clubofmozambique.com/news/mozambique-government-approves-new-gambling-regulations-stimulate-tourism/
Last updated: 09-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
