Gabon welcomes private operators as National Lottery upgrades
The Gabon gambling industry is in the process of reform as the nation’s lottery has announced a new licensing system for the industry. The move is expected to open up the industry to more players, with the sector coming under tighter regulatory control. The move is expected to bring a more modern and transparent gambling industry in Gabon.
Introduction of the new licensing system by GDJ
The Gabonese National Lottery (GDJ) has invited expressions of interest from different companies to apply for the gaming business under the new licensing system. Under the new system, different players will operate under the supervision and control of the national lottery.
Authorities say the move will help modernise the sector while protecting both players and public revenues. The announcement came through a communiqué signed by Roméo Ondo, Director-General of the GDJ. Local media outlet Gabon Newsroom reported details of the regulatory update.
Under the plan, qualified companies may run gambling operations after obtaining licences through the new system. Officials expect the model to encourage responsible operators to participate in a regulated market.
Existing licences set to expire
The reforms introduce a clear timeline for the transition to the new licensing regime. All previous authorisations, licences, and declarations will become invalid three months after 7 April 2026. Existing gambling licences will officially expire on 7 July 2026.
Operators must apply for new licences under the GDJ framework to continue operating legally. Authorities say the measure will eliminate irregular practices that have affected the sector for years. They also believe it will bring greater consistency to licensing procedures across the industry.
The shift reflects broader efforts to align the gambling sector with modern regulatory expectations. Officials aim to ensure fair competition while improving oversight of gambling activities nationwide.
First stage of the selection process
The call for expressions of interest marks the first stage in the selection procedure. Interested companies must submit proposals outlining their technical expertise and operational capabilities.
Applicants must demonstrate their financial management capacity and experience in operating regulated gaming activities. Authorities will review applications before allowing selected candidates to proceed to the next licensing stage.
The GDJ may hold information sessions during the application stage to explain the requirements to applicants. Officials are of the opinion that this will help in identifying credible partners for the market.
Industry welcomes clearer oversight
Industry stakeholders have reacted positively to the GDJ’s new direction. Many see the reform as a necessary step toward a more transparent gambling sector. Anita Moussavou, a senior executive in the industry, praised the approach. She said the GDJ is emphasising a “transparent, fair and rigorous selection process”.
Operators approved under the system must follow strict national regulations. These include responsible gambling policies and the protection of minors. They must also implement safeguards against money laundering and terrorism financing.
Operational security and compliance requirements will remain central to the licensing regime. Beyond regulatory obligations, the GDJ is seeking partners with strong technical and organisational capacity. Authorities also want projects that align with national priorities, such as economic development and social responsibility.
A step toward a structured gambling market
The upgrade in the license is part of the overall changes in the laws governing the gambling industry in Gabon. Recently, the government introduced new ordinances on 30 December 2025, in a bid to revolutionize the industry. The reforms in the laws are informed by the need to ensure the laws are in line with the current economic times and are in compliance with international regulations.
The changes are set to ensure the country has a more viable gaming industry in the near future. This move is a turning point in the gambling industry in Gabon and indicates the government’s intentions in the sector.
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